Twelfth Night

Fremantle Theatre Company’s second Shakespeare in the Park, Twelfth Night, has reached the beautiful Saw Amphitheatre in Kings Park after short seasons in Margaret River, Bunbury and Albany. A vibrant performance with modern references, some clever twists and an Australian air, this is a fun way to spend a summer’s evening.

Opening Night in Perth was what I am sure will be the coldest evening of the summer, with a biting wind, and the performance was also tormented by a helicopter and some noise pollution, but the midweek crowd were still enthralled by this well-performed high energy show, that frequently spills into the audience.

This production, directed by Fremantle Theatre Company founder Renato Fabretti, feels weighted towards the comedy, with strong performances and outstanding teamwork from conspirators Jackson Rutherford as Sir Andrew and Patrick Whitelaw as Sir Toby, lovely work from Tegan Mulvaney as Maria and a clever portrayal of Feste by Ebony McGuire. Rutherford and Whitelaw in particular frequently break the 4th wall (not that this set has any walls) and establish great relationships with the audience.

The most compelling performance though is from Holly Easterbrook as Viola and Cesario, boyishly charming, with a clever wit, it is easy to see why Asha Cluer’s sweet but commanding Olivia is smitten. Giuseppe D’Allura is a crush-worthy Orsino, with a lovely swagger.

It seems to be becoming a trend to play Malvolio as Malvolia, a queer rendering, that especially with a strong performer like Caitlin Beresford Ord, works well.  Beresford-Ord treads the fine line between being a figure of fun and an object of sympathy, very well. The cast is completed by Grady Swithenback as Sebastian, beautifully twinned with Easterbrook’s Cesario.

The use of modern songs is a lovely addition, and some local jokes give the show an endearing freshness.

The set is simple but striking and the show is technically impressive, with lighting designer Peter Young and Sound Engineer Dale Kerrison exceeding expectations in an outdoor venue. 

Twelfth Night at King’s Park is a great summer treat, and I advise arriving early to enjoy a picnic and the ambience. 

Kimberley Shaw