This perceptive, but slightly predictable insight is being presented by the Wanneroo Repertory at the Limelight Theatre, Civic Drive, Wanneroo. The 2-hour performances commence at 8.00 pm on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings until 26^th August. There is one matinée at 2.00 pm on Sunday 20^th.

The scene is Noosa in 2007. An impressive, single set (designer Rob Benson-Parry, built by Tim Riessen and Dave Browning) is of a modern house with high, plain grey walls. The décor is a set of illuminated louvered windows, with one large picture window at the rear, showing the sky beyond.

The left of the stage is Toby’s home. The right is Ron’s Noosa home, and on a central platform at the rear, is café.

Beth Crowley, Rachel Williams, and Cherilyn McMeekin care for the stage management.

Rob Benson-Parry and Jillian Betterton’s lighting is very well considered, and is used to selectively move the action around the stage, from location to location. The sound operator was Kim Elford, who played first class musical backing, selected from the works of local musician and vocalist, Kieran Ridgeway – an absolute delight.

     When left wing, Toby (David Nelson), a once ‘hard-hitting’ but now failing, documentary maker reaches 60, his wife Ros (Rosalyn Anderson) decides to throw a party, but Toby has very few friends and just wants to forget the event. The only person that might come is an old friend, Ron (Michael Balmer), whom Ros secretly detests. Ron is a wealthy property developer who has ruined the area, but earned himself $200 million in the process.

     Ron’s wife, Natasha (Gillian Binks) tries to avoid the invitation – without success. On the night of the celebratory dinner out, Toby takes along his son Rick (Nick Thomas), a struggling, singer / songwriter. Likewise, Natasha brought her Greenie daughter, Emma (Catherine Dunn), a ruthless corporate lawyer. It is an evening when no one is on good terms with any other. Even the children have trouble with their parents.

     The day after the party, Toby decides that they must move to Sydney and be with people of a similar nature to their own, but can this really be the answer?

 This play is Tim Riessen’s directing début, but sadly, he has chosen what must be one of David Williamson’s worst plays. The script had chunks of complicated finance theory, coupled with heavy going accounts of the politics of the day. Some of the dialogue was so complicated that it was a major task for the talented cast to cope; and the audience? Well their eyes probably glazed over. Having to concentrate so intently upon the script caused the actors to slow their pace, loose their enunciation and have a weak projection. The body language and chemistry at times disappeared. Very sad because the cast were word perfect and working hard – they deserve credit, in fact a medal.

The storyline was fairly predictable. As a David Williamson fan, I was disappointed.

The unmissable 70-minute, sexy cabaret performances will blow your mind and leave you in a puddle of perspiration. Some girls practise burlesque to give them more confidence with their body. Others may want to improve their sex drive and sensuality – perhaps even be better in the bedroom – or they simply enjoy the wild costumes and fun exercise.

Scarlet Bell was started by a group of Murdoch theatre students who as well as the aforementioned, want to expand their theatrical skills. The show is kinky and sexy, but not embarrassing, stopping just short of nudity. Once Burlesque was a pretty basque or a simple fan dance, this talented troupe gives their audience much more.

This lusty show can be seen at Studio 411, Murdoch University South Street, Murdoch, each evening at 8.30 until Saturday 4^th February.

The walls and floor are matte black, but the vibrant lighting (operator – Nick Morant) and the booming, arousing music (operator – Kiah van Vlijmen ) had the temperature rising rapidly. The stage manager (Launcelot Ronzan) kept the show’s pace flowing smoothly.

     With a riding crop in her hand, Dollar Dazzler strutted up to the audience, before doing a quick survey as to how ’educated’ they were. It was amazing how many of the audience were at Burlesque for the first time; admittedly some could have been grandparents, there to see their treasured offspring.

     Dollar’s beautiful assistant, Ivy, demonstrated how the cast would be shaking their boobs and oscillating their butts – but most importantly, how loud we were expected to cheer and encourage the performers.

     The thing about Burlesque is that it covers all ages, heights, body shapes and dress sizes; the larger ladies were often the best strutters. The performers were well rehearsed and the choreography slick. They smiled boldly as their attire floated to the floor. There was even a Mr Scarlett, a whip wielding dominator, who had a penchant for cutting off the ladies’ clothes.

     With a dozen artistes, all immaculately undressed, the diaphanous garments fell, the feather fans skilfully fluttered and the pasties popped. There numerous routines, all very different; with a little bondage, a great deal of flesh stroking, the temperature in the room soon rose rapidly.

     The dancers’ exotic names included Alice D’ Wilde, Belle Bliss, Campanillo en Fuego, Clara Devine, Elle Entice, Foxxxy Curves, La Bananae Split, Mystical Belle, Opal D’Sire, Smoky Wilshore, Trixie La Rose. Whatever your fetish, they satisfied.

With any kind of nudity or risqué performance it is important that the performers show no sign of embarrassment, even if they are palpitating inside that corset. This troupe was superb, giving us a wonderful set of fun-filled routines, with courage and a warm smile.

For the older men in the audience, don’t forget your asthma puffers and blood pressure tablets.

Great fun.

The three-hour performances can be seen nightly at 8.00 until Saturday 28^th January, with a matinée on Sunday 29 at 2.00 pm.

‘Lives that are Parallel’ this quirky romance is approx. 65 minutes. It was written by James Forte and directed by Fran Gordon, with assistance from James Forte.

James spent a year with the select Black Swan Emerging Writers Group, and this has helped him develop a tight script with a natural dialogue. This storyline is novel, several well-developed story threads, and very relevant to today’s youngsters.

The stage shows two bedsits. They are in student flats in two very different countries. Stage crew Franklin Burke, Mallory Sallingen and Jack Gordon.

             The LA airport announcer (Calvin Payne) asks passengers not to leave their cases unattended. A group of girls on a sports tour are rushing through the crowds, when one, Sacha (Lily Baitup) literally bumps into a group of Aussies boys on their way home. As one of the lads, William (Steve Anderson) picks himself up, he locks eyes with Sacha. They seem to become spellbound with each other. Sacha’s friends, Hannah (Tanzyn Crawford) along with the bossy team captain, Helga (Crystal Dawson) grab her, dragging Hannah off to the plane.

       Back at home, his friend Tim (Samuel Jones) is mocking William, who is still in a dream. His girlfriend, Gailene (Sara Burke) is annoyed about her mysterious competition. Desperate, William pesters his sister Jane (Chanice Edmonds) to help him trace this fleeting angel.

A tricky situation to make believable, and with a couple of ethereal scenes I was starting to have doubts, however, with clever writing, good acting and strong direction the final result felt perfectly plausible.

A minor weakness is that the characters are all, by necessity, very similar in age and personality. It might be worth developing a real ratbag or madcap individual. Solid performances from the two leads.

Most unusual and enjoyable.

‘The Bright Side of Life’. This touching comedy was 55 minutes long. Written and directed by Siobhán Wright, and the assistant director being Denice Byrne.

Written by all-round, theatrical enthusiast, Siobhán Wright, the dialogue is exceptional and delivered by a well-chosen cast. This was Siobhán’s first time directing, and was most admirable.

 The scene is the lounge of an old folk’s home in Dublin. A semi-circle of armchairs and numerous props (Melissa Skeffington) ensured an authentic look.

        The nurse (Siobhán Wright, alternating with Denice Byrne) welcomes Kathleen (Claire Westheimer) to the old folks’ home. Her son Paul (Ken Ratcliffe) explains to his Mum that she will only be there for a couple of weeks, whilst he fixes up a Granny Flat.

       Kathleen is then introduced to a strange mixture of ‘inmates’, such as Betty (Julie Holmshaw – great) – a severe hypochondriac, and poor Annie (Karin Staflund) who spends her day cuddling a doll. Then there is the bright and sparkling Mona (Clare Wilson – well done) who loves to share the highlights of her better days.

       Quietly knitting the most repulsive jumpers, is Magser (Marian Byrne – delightful). She still has all of her screws; she needs to be alert when her money-grabbing daughter, Frankie (Kathleen Alloway) and son Jason (James Donnelly) call around. The only highlight of the week is when the occupational therapist, Oliver (Paddy McAuley), comes to give them ‘yoga’ lessons.

   When young GP, Bella (Melissa Skeffington) visits, she learns more than she expects from this strange mix of residents.

I know that the gay character was meant to be comical relief, but he was so far over the top (the actor performed well to the direction and script) that he became an annoying caricature. Even the most ‘sheltered’ audience member would get the message and still raise a smile, with just a subtle hint.

This was still a beautiful play, plenty of humour; well-observed characters brought to life with great acting, and topped with good dialogue. It brought a tear to a few eyes; one could hear the tissues coming out. Well done.

‘Being Juliet’ a cleverly written, 55-minute romantic comedy, from playwright Yvette Wall and is directed by Carol Hughes.

Yvette has won many writing awards, and is not frightened to try something new. I consider Yvette to be one of WA’s top three writers. This clever script included a few different writing styles and acting genres, with numerous hilarious misquotes (deliberate) from Shakespeare.

The scene is the backstage of a second rate, community theatre production. The costumes range from the sublime fairy costume, to the wild dominatrix outfit of Tina. Costumes by Fran Gordon, Carol Hughes and Sue Murray.

      The stage manager (Ryan Taaffe) calls for the actors to take their opening positions.

     The fairy, Lillian (Jenni Glassford) notices that young Brenda (Yvonne Lingua) is looking depressed. Brenda feels that in spite of all her hard work, brassy Tina (Sue Murray) seems to get all of the better parts, whilst she – Brenda – is constantly over looked.

     Randy Jordan (Dan Wilson), the dashing hero of the play tries to pacify poor Brenda.

     Will Brenda get a chance to blossom? Or is she doomed to being the understudy forever?

I loved the concept, there were several unexpected twists and it was most enjoyable, however, it sadly this did not quite satisfy or work for me. I appreciate that the ’troupe’ were meant to be an incongruent shambles, but perhaps the characters were a little too diverse, with the result that none of them quite melded at any stage. I am sure that a few tweaks are all this clever writing requires.

For all three plays, the effective lighting design was by Ian Wilson and John Woolrych, and smoothly operated by Carole Wilson.

One or two of the younger actors did not realise how the black drapes absorb their voices. A little more projection and a slightly slower delivery can help overcome this problem.

The three plays had a total performance time of 3 hours. Although very different and well presented, three hours (including the two intervals) is a little long. This however did not stop this play’s run from having many full houses.

A most enjoyable night out with three solid presentations, topped with a warm welcome.

This show has a young, but energetic and highly motivated amateur, cast are presented by Studio2Stage Youth Productions in conjunction with Phoenix Theatre. Although aged 11-18 years, they gave a quality performance in a broad range of dance, and advanced theatrical styles.

This two-hour show can be seen at the Phoenix Theatre Inc, in the Memorial Hall at 435 Carrington Street, Hamilton Hill. The season runs on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evenings until 27^th January, with all the shows have curtain up at 7.30 pm. There are a couple of Sunday matinées at 2.00. As always at the Phoenix, the foyer was decorated having a glowing, realistic jukebox (Jodie Innes, Emma and Mark Foster, Michelle Shoosmith and Carrie Lewis).

A couple of key nights have sold out already, so get in quickly.

Studio2Stage have a merchandise table with fun 50’s items for sale.

Nightly raffles and programme sales profits will go to two worthy causes, Autism WA and The Lupus Foundation.

The main sets were the classroom and sports field of Rydell High School in 1958. There were several minor sets on the stage apron, e.g. café. The sets were quite symbolic, but the numerous, fascinating props of the era supplied by Narelle Thoms enhanced the scenes.

Alexander Coutts-Smith and Mikaela Innes’ lighting and sound design helped the show bounce along and added to the spectacle. Michelle Shoosmith operated the complex lighting design smoothly.

Bryan Shoosmith was the sound operator, retaining an ideal balance of accompaniment volume for the singers, and kept up with the numerous headsets (they all worked!! Wow).

         It is the end of the summer holidays, and T-bird greaser, Danny Zuko (Liam Pini) is keen to tell his pals consisting of his best friend Kenickie (Lincoln Tapping), guitar strumming Doody (Tim McClelland), the group’s sex bomb Sonny (Rudi Palmela), and Roger (Edan Frazer), all about the dream girl he met on the beach. She was beautiful Sandy Dee (Rebecca Collin), they fell in love, but Danny added a few tasteless comments into the affair and these got back to Sandy.

         Meanwhile, the Pink Ladies, who are a clique of stylish girls consisting of Rizzo (Kel Camponova), Marty (Mia Frazer) and Jan (Ruby Thoms) are sitting in the classroom, disclosing to each other their holiday affairs. As they chat, an old maid teacher, Miss Lynch (Lili Thoms) introduces them to a new girl, Sandra. Most of the Pinks ignore her, but welcoming Frenchy (Phillippa Bialas) befriends her. Before long, Sandy meets Danny, but she is horrified to find he described her as a loose woman.

        Frenchy invites Sandy to a pyjama party, but after trying a cigarette, drinking and getting her ears pierced by Frenchy, Sandy is feeling even worse. Rizzo makes fun of her virtuous nature. Kenickie buys a wreck of car, that he names ‘Greased Lightning’ to impress Sandy, but Danny borrows it and takes Sandy to a drive-in.

        Frenchy feels that school is a waste of time and decides to go to college to study makeup. However, she is visited by a teen angel (Elias Shoosmith) who advises her to return to school.

       The school dance is hosted by DJ Vince Fontaine (Elias Shoosmith) who flirts with Marty. Kenickie attempts to spite Rizzo by dating Cha-Cha (Emmalee Bialas). Although she is very pretty, poor Patty (Laura Foster) finds that along with geek Eugene (Lachlan Felstead) they are the leftovers when the dance competition is announced.

       Broken hearted, Sandy sits at home singing along with the radio singer (Amalie Meneghetti). Still in love with Danny, Sandy decides to do all she can to win him back, so with advice from Frenchy, she arrives at the school in a stunning black leather outfit. Could this bring the answer to her prayers?

 The ensemble is an unfortunate name for the group of wonderful, remaining performers; they are Tara Butt, Charlotte Holly-Little, Eliza Lewis, Keira Butt, Rebecca Winn, Bethany Tandy and Riley Innes.

Normally a director has an uphill battle trying to mould a young cast into their characters, whilst praying that the whole show will come together in the end. However, this cast has been superbly trained in all the theatre skills by the Studio2Stage acting school. Thanks to director, Jodie Innes and her assistant Narelle Thoms, this whole cast were acting years above their age. Their stage presence was jaw dropping.

The delivery of the songs was done with power and perfect pitch – I didn’t notice bum note anywhere. There was some tremendous singing by the leads and featured singers, but when 13-year-old Mia Frazer sang ‘Freddy my Love’ I was blown away at the skills shown. Every singer was outstanding.

The lively orchestral music was on a licenced disc, but the musical direction of the cast was by 16-year old (yes 16!!) Lincoln Tapping; who along with choreographer Mikaela Innes, gave us numerous memorable numbers. The young stars gave us acrobatic lifts, with graceful and interesting dance routines.

With a large cast, Leanne and Emily Winn managed the stage wonderfully well, and with Ebony Howard and Bethany Tandy helping with the muscle work on stage everything flowed smoothly. The colourful and well researched costumes were excellent. The hair (loved Teen Angel) and makeup were also by Jodie and Elaine Innes.

I went expecting a simple musical from some youngsters and came away totally impressed. Quite a few names to remember, I hope their Stage School has a year book for future reference.

This 14-minute presentation was a special (private) premiere screening of this Apex Blue film at Studio 411 within Murdoch University on Thursday 15^th December. There were two screenings, one at 5.30 the second at 7.00 pm.

       The scene is the present day in an English-speaking country, one that has enjoyed freedom and happiness for centuries. Now the regime has taken over, and even people’s simple rights have vanished overnight. Any enjoyment or education of women must suffer the consequences.

     A young teacher, Mellori (as a child – Charlize Rebelo, adult – Dailin Manning) has dedicated herself to advancing the lives of street children. When a representative of the corrupt authorities (Paul Davey) calls at the mother’s (Charlotte Matilda-Weber) house, and then the local school. They must take away her students (Ava Gillies, Dailin Manning, Noah D’annunzio, Lilas Areias Da Mata) to be trained for their military.

     The soldiers are heartless and Mellori finds herself helpless, thank goodness, she has her brother (youngster – Rohan Eshraghi, as an adult – Anthony Smith) for support, who has just walked back into her life after 10 years, but he seems to have changed.

The film’s music comprised of the ‘Raven Lullaby’ that was composed by Scott Majidi, and performed by Dailin Manning; along with the ‘Project Phoenix’  played by the Secession was used in the trailer. The resultant background music was perfect for the speed and action of each scene.

The photography angles, frame composition and depth of field were carefully used to excellent effect. The video was skilfully edited – I only saw one ‘mistake’ – with just the right length of shots to build up the suspense.

Other techniques such as using monochrome and solarisation added to the disturbing situation. The director, Scott Majidi, can be proud of his storyline, quality of shooting and all the support from his actors and crew. Short in length but he still managed to create real empathy. An admirable amateur WA film.

This 2-hour Ellenbrook Theatre Company’s spectacle can be seen at the Ellenbrook Performing Arts Centre, 100 Main Street, Ellenbrook on Sunday, 18^th December at 2.30 pm and 7.30 pm, as well as Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday at 7.30 pm.

All credit to the City of Swan for sponsoring this – one of only two  – Perth Christmas pantomimes.

The sets are stunning. The flats are book style, being hinged in the middle this allows them to be turned over for a set change. The artwork on the 5 massive flats is exceptional. The village green, the kitchen, Palace Garden, the woodland glade, and the ballroom, each truly a work of art in its own right. Bright attractive colours, perfect perspective and crammed with detail. Set painting by Stacy Gardoll. Her company, The Painted Room do murals and art designs for the home.

Many unusual props, such as truncheons and glass slippers were sourced by Ian Howard, Brian Harris, Bryony Oliver, Jordan Lenihan and Suzanne Perry. The complex show was smoothly stage managed by Guy Jackson.

The sound and lighting design was by Mark Turnbull. It was exciting and most professional.

The makeup was clever and bright thanks to Jan Oliver, Sylvia Guest and Jasmin Lenihan.

The numerous colourful and unusual costumes were designed by Jan Oliver (of Masquerade costumes) and very well made with the help of Bryony Oliver and Nicky Stewart.

The whole production was supervised by Jan Oliver – a massive amount of work.

       In a forest, we meet a Fairy Godmother (Sabrina Davies) and her young assistant (Ruby Oliver). They explain in rhyme, and with heavenly singing, what is happening at the Palace. As they finish, a local thief, Burglar Bill (Damion Brown) is pursued through the wood by the town’s incompetent police force – PC99 (Alex Griffin) and Sergeant Letsby-Avenue (Lyndsey Turner).

       We see a young girl in tatty clothes, she is Cinderella (Emily Schinkel) helping an old lady pick up sticks for her fire. What Cinderella doesn’t know is, that the old woman is the Fairy Godmother in disguise. The fairy gives Cinders a magic token, a star.

       Walking through the woods comes Prince Charming (Jordan Lenihan) and his reliable servant, Dandini (Lloyd Matias). The Prince falls in love with the peasant girl and so gives her a ticket to the Royal Ball. However, Cinderella’s cruel stepmother, the Baroness (Meredith Corr), has forced this daughter of her new husband, the Baron (Peter Boylen) to do all the housework. So, poor Cinderella’s only friend is Buttons (Bryony Oliver); her two ugly, loud and hideous stepsisters, Gwyneth (Giordarna Rigoli) and Gwendolyn (Rebecca McRae) are desperate for a husband, but have no quality and absolutely no chance of success.

       Following the Fairy Godmother’s advice, Buttons helps Cinderella collect a pumpkin, a pair of lizards (Angela Gethin, Chardonnay Mitchell), a big rat (Lisa Reith) and a pair of mice (Isabel Davies, Lexi Brindley – delightful). Soon the fairy’s magic is worked and with a pair of horses (John Paul Botha, Max Hughes) the gold carriage arrives.

       What will happen next?

I often feel that the word ‘Chorus’ can suggest that the remaining characters in a pantomime were just hangers-on. Far from it, here every dancer, even the tiniest had tremendous stage presence, and carried out the dance routines – Gangnam, tap, several very different styles – with smiling confidence. They were Jasmin Pradhan, Kaitlin Pradhan, Kasey Burgess, Breannah Rigoli, Letisha O’Neill, Charli Crouch, Ebony Crouch, Hollie Burgess, Jordan Reith and Madison Reith.

The print artwork, the poster and programme (Sean Breadsell of Immaculate Photography) were of the highest quality.

Director Chris McRae has gathered a wonderful, keen and talented cast. Many of the young cast members could have a real future on the stage. Chris has given us a sing-a-long, great music and just a delightful fun show. The choreographer – and colourful sunflower – Shirelle Burgess, with the aid of the dance captains, Max Hughes and that terrific dancing Christmas tree, Renae O’Neill, has trained the youths (aged from 8 to 17) to an incredible standard.

Ugly sisters – boo hiss – were terrific. They communicated with the audience wonderfully. In fact I am fixed up with one for later in the week.

The super Baroness had a wonderful air of grandeur and dominance, putting fear into the audience (well slightly – there was nothing truly frightening).

The Fairy Godmother, Sabrina Davies is a professional star and has happily given her time to this wonderful cause.

Ellenbrook is one of the few community theatres that can produce a professional looking show every time. Another solid success – but are there any tickets left?

This Old Mill, 90-minute production can be seen at the Old Mill Theatre, Mends Street in South Perth. This curtain up at 7.30 pm each evening until Saturday 16^th December. Tickets are scarce.

The stage has two sets; on one side is the office of Scrooge and Marley – the flats were a grubby brown – and on the other side of the stage is the Cratchit’s kitchen. Centre stage became Scrooge’s meagre bedroom.

The set was designed by Justin Friend, and then built by Justin, Les Hart and Phil Barnett. The production manager, Sheila Wileman provided most of the antique props. The copyright owner supplied the orchestral music on CD, but this was melodiously enhanced by the choral accompaniment provided by the talented cast in the wings – well, trained by the musical director, Justin Freind.

Stage manager, Megan Burley, had a cast of thousands to control, but they entered and exited smoothly, from both the wings and the rear of the auditorium. This worked very well and added to the audience involvement. The set changes were smooth and unobtrusive.

The operation of the sound effects (Nina O’Doherty) and smoke machine were faultless.

John Woolrych’s lighting design was one of his best yet. Real candles lighted Scrooge’s office and the accompanying glow was of perfect tone and level. There was also good selective lighting on the soloist singers. One costume had small blue lamps built into the seams, well worth the extra work. The limelights of the era were replaced by two strips of LEDs that gave a chilling effect to some of the dream sequences. Ian O’Doherty faultlessly operated the lighting.

       The miserly owner, Ebenezer Scrooge (Barry Park), has paid Bob Cratchit (Craig Menner) minimal wages for decades. Ebenezer’s partner, the friendly and well-loved Jacob Marley died several years earlier. Poor Bob has also to help the two trainee accountants, Thomas and Richard (Blake Jenkins, Cooper Jenkins – great soft shoe shuffle) learn the trade. When Scrooge announces to his staff that they must come into work as normal on Christmas Day, the locals, Harold (Ashley Garner) and his friends (Cassidy Pemberton), Topper (Bonnie Kerslake) and Polly (Eliza Malcolm) are horrified and discuss Scrooge’s meanness.

       Bob lives in a decaying house with his dear wife, Mrs Cratchit (Hayley Grant) and their daughters, Belinda (Tahlia Menner) and Martha (Atira Shack). They also have a weak and disabled son, Tiny Tim (Orlando Borg – beautiful solo).

       Bob answers the office door to two charity workers, (Harriett Du Pont, Jenny Trestrail), who are asking for donations for the poor. As they leave empty handed, Scrooge’s nephew, Fred (George O’Doherty) and his girlfriend, Emily (Claudia Sciano) call around to invite Scrooge to their home for Christmas dinner – the reply is ‘bah humbug’.

On Christmas Eve, as the clock is striking midnight, Scrooge climbs into bed. Soon he is asleep. In a frightening dream sequence, he sees his old partner, Jacob Marley (Grant Malcolm – fabulous) wrapped in chains. Then he meets the Ghost of Christmas Past (Matilda Jenkins – beautiful voice), who shows him the happiness that once surrounded him as a schoolchild (Bradley Paulet) with young friends, Fan (Tashie Baker) and Wilkins (Jamie Buttery). Then, years later as a young man, Scrooge (Felix Malcolm) is seen spending his Christmas doing bookwork with his old kind boss, Fezziwig (David Major). Even a visit from his childhood sweetheart, (Jade Gibbons) fails to make him happy.

       The nightmare continues as the ebullient Spirit of Christmas Present (Nelson Clemente – more of a bubbly champagne than a ‘spirit’) appears as a wild Spanish dancer; with castanets clicking, he shows Scrooge the sadness and poverty of the Cratchit’s home, and the mercenary local pawnbroker (Wesley Williams) ripping off poor Mrs Dilbert (Georgia Dixon).

      Then the 3 metre tall Spirit of Christmas Future (Grant Malcolm), draped in black with a skeletal skull and arms, arrives and demonstrates to Scrooge what a difference he could make to his workers’ lives.

      Could life be changing for this wretched old miser?

This the year of the Scrooge. This version, directed by Justin Freind, is different to all of the others. It is filled with superb singing, fun and at times frightening ghosts. With a young cast, age range from eight to eighteen, the show sparkled and bounced along at a perfect pace. The numerous costumes were all carefully considered for the period and beautifully tailored by Jenny Prosser. Michelle Buttery’s makeup design was excellent, with Marley’s ghost looking particularly creepy.

With such a large cast, the importance of knowing how to move around the stage without bumping and causing chaos had been well learned. There were some novel touches, such as the white-faced ghosts wandering around Scrooge’s bedroom and then the audience.

Barry ‘Scrooge’ Park has been nominated this year for a Finley, and here he is with great characterisation and a soft, mellifluous voice, again proving why he was nominated.

An exceptional cast, I looked for the ensemble member who may nod off or be distracted – not even one, everybody was focused and dedicated.

Justin Freind’s shows are always quality, and this is another wonderful show to add to his résumé.

This play is based on the most famous of Carlo Goldoni’s works, ‘A Servant of Two Masters’, written in the 1740s. ‘One Man, Two Guvnors’ went on to win the Critics’ Circle Theatre Award in 2011, then Best New Play in the Evening Standard Awards also in 2011.

The Melville Theatre Company is presenting this hilarious, madcap two-hour play, and it can be seen nightly until Saturday 10th December, at the Melville Theatre, on the corner of Stock Road and Canning Highway in Melville.

The time is 1963, in Brighton on the south coast of England. The main scene is the sitting room of Charlie’s house, but with the movement of the odd flat, it was transformed into the dining room of the local hostelry. The set construction was led by Ross Bertinshaw, who was aided by Don Callison, along with Lars and Jacob Jensen. The whole cast ‘mucked in’ with the painting of the set.

There were several involved scene changes, but stage manager, Garry Davies assisted by Ross Bertinshaw and Jeff Hansen were quick and efficient. The lighting design could have been simple, but designer Lars Jensen had some nice extra touches. Vanessa Jensen operated the lighting and sound desks.

         Thanks to the skills of bent solicitor, Harry Dangle (Peter Neaves), cockney criminal, Charlie Clench (Kim Taylor) has been released from prison – yet again. Now his Jamaican minder, Lloyd (Amri Mrisho), is guarding him.

         In Charlie’s house, there is an engagement party. Charlie’s beautiful but brainless daughter, Pauline (Pip Tompson) was in love with Rosko, but he was discovered murdered by Stanley (Sean Bullock). So Pauline has found a new love, and is about to marry the solicitor’s son, the ham actor and drama queen, Alan Dangle (Lachlan Stewart).

         The doorbell rings and a rotund character, Francis Henshall (Chris Bedding) enters. He is Harry’s odd job man, whose appetite for food is insatiable. Francis spots Charlie’s secretary, Dolly (Victoria Dixon) and immediately there is a love bond. As the party progresses, the dead boyfriend, Rosko arrives – it is in fact his twin sister, Rachel (Sarah Christiner) dressed in Rosko’s suit.

       The group move by taxi, (driver Jeff Hansen) to a private room in the local pub. On the way, they encounter a nervous old lady (Michelle Sharp) and are chased by a policeman (Ross Bertinshaw). At the venue, smart waiter, Gareth (Warren McGrath) and his ancient, accident-prone assistant, Alfie (Don Callison), are serving cordon bleu food for the celebration. The barman (Garry Davies) tries to deal with the demand for drinks.

       Will love blossom? Will anyone ever get married?

The soft background music was arranged and played by Josiah Pad. The costumes, and there were a few unusual ones, were crafted by Michelle Sharp who was assisted by Barbara Lovell.

With Francis’s demand for food, Cally Zanik was kept busy with the preparation of multiple courses for the dining scene.

The play is refreshingly different. It is a blend of farce, slapstick, pantomime and is partly in the style of a series of plays (‘The Farndale Avenue Housing Estate‘) which I cannot stand. With the actors playing straight to the audience, and even becoming slightly involved with them, this was a new kind of humour.

Director, Vanessa Jensen was so lucky in getting Chris Bedding to play the part of Francis. Chris, who is a man of the cloth – no, he is not a window cleaner – specialises in impromptu comedy, where the comedians have to think rapidly as events unfold. He was magnificent in this play, and had all of the body actions. He carried the show. A good comedian often requires a good ‘feed’ man, and the rest of the cast all excelled with their lines and timing. Could Chris be nominated for next year’s Finleys?

There were numerous styles of dialogue for the very different interesting characters; for Pauline she was superb as the dumb daughter, and then there was Rachel who had to deliver a lengthy explanation, in medical terms, of her zygotic structure – hilarious. Poor Alfie must have to lie down for a few hours after every performance.

This show was one constant belly laugh from beginning to end.

The word went rapidly around as to how extremely funny this play is. Every house has been fully booked, and with the demand is still being there, I wish there was another week.

The musical was not seen for decades, as the original scores went missing during Bart’s ‘unsettled’ years. In this period, he sold the rights to ‘Oliver’ for $200 to Max Bygraves, in order to get money for booze. A 19-year-old Australian fan, Andrew Jarrett, restored the show.

This two and a half hour, energetic and lively musical is being presented at the Limelight Theatre, in Wanneroo at 8.00 pm on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights until 10^th December.

Alan Brock’s elaborate sets, included the Bank Underground, Victoria Station, Petticoat Lane, and a London street on fire during an air raid. Alan Brock and Dave Browning built the sets. The magnificent scenic artist was Ursula Kotara.

The sets were cleverly designed to rotate to produce a new location, but it was the extras like the ruins after a bomb had dropped – and a special effect in the last few seconds – that really gave depth and realism to the show. The stage crew of Deb Anderson, Maddie Innes, Helen Smolders, Zak Ozolins and Jen Edwards worked quickly and silently.

The highly realistic lighting design was by Robert Benson Parry and Jacob Anderson, with the operators being Wally Fry and Jacob Anderson. The lights flickered as the bombers flew over, and the red glow was threatening. To the number ‘As long as this is England’ the lights oscillated red, white and blue as the Union Jacks were waved.

The most convincing and multifaceted soundscape was designed and produced by Patrick McGinn and Kim Elford. With a sensible use of the smoke machine, the technicians gave us a true day in the Blitz.

This complex production with a cast of ‘thousands’ was co-ordinator by Ros Guye.

The orchestra was positioned in front of the stage, but in a ‘below the ground’ pit. Thanks to the multi-talented Musical Director, conductor and on keyboard, Lyn Brown, the sound balance was perfect and you could even pick out individual instruments. The orchestra musicians were Violins – David Maconochie, Pam and Henri Pougnault, Jeanne Vernon and Tamara Scott. Cello – Russell Vernon, Bass – Roger Tuffley, Reeds – David Lawrence, Miriam Wholer, Chelsea Kittler and Bronwyn Booth. Brass section – David Lawrence and Sandra McKenna with Terry Murphy on drums. Great accompaniment.

     The scene is the platform of Bank Underground station, where the residents of Petticoat Lane are sheltering. They are singing along with Vera Lynn on the radio. The widowed, pickled herring seller, patriarchal Mrs Blitztein (Susan Vincent – outstanding) then sings to the people who are lying on the platform, avoiding the bombs outside. Her Yiddish accent and singing are abused and insulted by fruiterer, Alfred Locke (Alan Markham).

     Alfred’s son, Georgie (Oliver Bourne) is in love with Mrs Blitztein’s daughter, Carol (Catherine Dunn), and her son Harry Blitztein (Adrian Price) seems to have rejected his usual girlfriend, lodger Elsie (Tania Morrow) preferring a married Shiksa (a disparaging Yiddish term for a non-Jewish woman) posh Joyce Matthews (Libby Cooper) whose husband is fighting overseas.

     The bombings are becoming worse, and so with suitcases in hand, the schoolchildren are led by their teacher (Elinor King) to Victoria station for evacuation in the country. Next to leave are the army reserves, supervised by the Sergeant Major (Glenn Rowan), who are heading for the docks and the Front.

     Ever pessimistic Ernie (Tim Riessen), Alf’s best friend and fellow air raid warden, announces the damage so far. Mrs Blitztein’s best friends, shopping bag maker, Mrs Joseph (Kerry Goode) and her husband, baker Mr Joseph (David Nelson) are desperately trying to get a few shillings by selling their wares. Rachel (Colleen Hopkins) and Cissy Blitztein (Colleen Hopkins) are well-loved in the market and help the stallholders.

   The ‘Queen of Petticoat Lane’, Mrs B. has taken in Mr Sen (RJ Smolders) and his wife (Karen Thompson) as lodgers, because they have lost their home to a bomb. Mrs Murphy (Gwen Browning) and daughter Peg (Lauren Hulatt) go to live with Alfred’s family. The other folks in this close community are Mr and Mrs O’Hara (Tom Kinshela, Jayne Triffitt), Mrs Smith (Joan Braskie), Mrs Jones (Carol Keppler) and Mrs Higgins (Hope Baylis).

     We soon find that Harry has not boarded the troop ship, and is actually AWOL. He met an old friend, Bird (Andrew Brown) and has become a spiv.

     Playing several parts were Taneeka Hall, Dave Browning, Brad Beckett, Jacinta Buckland and Gabrielle Bright.

‘The Kids’ troupe comprising Brandon Orgill, Zackary Gosatti, Lucie Lockyer, Grace Elford, Arion Marama, Katie Moloney, Faye Whitwell, Indianna Rowan, Daniel Grant, Jenna McGougan-Shaw, Lilly Varley, Georgie Lockyer, Joe Neil and Jacob Miles was the best set of young singers and dancers that I have seen in years. Every single member was perfectly in step, even throughout the complex routines, everyone smiled; and when acting was required, the expressions and body language were that of an experienced adult. Fabulous work from every single ‘kid’. Superb stage awareness and wonderful teamwork.

The director and choreographers, Jen Edwards and Alan Brock, even in quiet scenes such as the homeless sleeping on the platform, ensured that there were various groups doing different antics. The stage was alive. The intricate dances with the lively foot work, was jaw dropping at times.

The demand upon the costumes department was huge. With the show being based 80 years ago, the dresses had to be researched, and then made with the styles and patterns of the day. There were soldiers and police uniforms – all tricky to source. The children’s clothing and their board suitcases added to the nightmare. However, Joyce Gilbert, Kim Elford, Kerry Wood, Elinor King, Meg Considine, Marion James, Shelley McGinn and Pearl Jensen have done a mammoth task, to bring such quality to the stage. There were a few unusual props supplied by Susie Benson-Parry and Carryn McLean.

The blitz was obviously a depressing time, but this cast clearly demonstrated the greatest message of the day – love and support your neighbour through hard times.

This was a very expensive show to present (a massive licence fee), with numerous sets and a huge cast, but thank you for taking the risk and giving us a rarely presented musical. A wonderful, light-hearted fun show, crammed with several great singers and catchy tunes. Every scene was a visual feast. Dare I mention that some of the dancers were a little more mature than usual, and yet they had all of the drive and vivacity of youth in every step? The mass entrances and exits ‘just happened’ with no obvious crowding, such polished planning.

This production had to show tragedy, happiness, antisemitism, the darker side of a blitz, as well as find a cast that could tirelessly sing and dance. Everything worked a good, solid success.

‘STAGE ONE’ is an initiative of the Theatre Arts course at Curtin University. Now in its 5th year, it offers Western Australian playwrights the opportunity to write and premiere a new play. It is then produced at the Blue Room Theatre, providing undergraduates with the acting and technical experience of working and exploring a new work.

Previous Curtin students, who have benefited from this perfect opportunity, include Frances O’Connor, Mandy McElhinney, Kate Atkinson, Clare Hooper, Kate Mulvany and Jess De Gouw.

This 70-minute dark unsettling play, with touches of black comedy, can be seen at The Blue Room Theatre, Perth Cultural Centre, Northbridge until Saturday 10^th December. Please check the performance times.

Alexander Gerrans set of Patrick Howe’s design, is a very convincing garage and store room. There are several very good weather and woodland effects. Lizzie Howard had some unusual and difficult props to acquire. The costume supervisors were Taylor Burtenshaw and Gemma Wilkie, who created realistic gore damaged clothes.

Joe Lui mentored both Noah Bateman with his realistic soundscape, and Kane Scriven’s wonderful mood lighting.

Stage Management ran smoothly thanks to Sally Davies and her deputy, Jack Wilson.

The whole production was overseen by Stephen Carr and Karen Cook.

The scene is today in the region of the NSW Blue Mountains.

     In the mountainous countryside is a Body Farm, this is where people who have left their bodies to science are left lying around in different soils and fluids so that pathologists can gather information on how quickly bodies decompose in different circumstances.

     When Anton died, his family found that he had left his body to the Farm; his sister (Jess Nyanda Moyle) is devastated that he did not have a proper funeral. One day at university, a girl with an angelic face and a nervous smile (Caitlin McFeat) approaches the sister, and gabbling away asks if she would like to join her church.

     In a nearby garage, owned by the aunt and uncle of #2 (Bianca Roose), is a group known as ‘The Family of the Book’ – who, for anonymity reasons, prefer to use numbers rather than names. Dressed in white forensic overalls are two threatening men #3 and #4 (Frazer Shepherdson, Sam Ireland). After painstaking planning, they have kidnapped the Body Farm’s caretaker (Ming Yang Lim) in order to gain access.

       A slightly dozy member of the group, #6 (Anna Lindstedt) arrives wearing non-standard ‘Family’ clothing. With her is the leader, #1 (Declan Brown) who, knowing that it won’t be long before the police arrive, decides to quickly move in on the Farm.

       After such planning and with God on their side, what could possibly go wrong?

The director and guiding light of this highly original play, is the multi award-winning actor and writer, Will O’Mahony; who on this occasion is assisted in the directing by Chelsea Gibson. The play has superbly observed and richly written characters. The action starts with humour and slowly works up to a gripping climax, followed by a scene that had the whole audience squirming.

The actors each knew their part in the story’s colourful jigsaw. Many very different parts working in perfect harmony. One small suggestion, when there is a great deal of shouting, either lower the voices down an octave, or speak more slowly – even in the wildest argument – as some of the diction was lost.

Adroit direction of a terrific script, involving an interesting set of characters and backed by clever technical skills. Strongly recommended, you will not have seen a play like this before.