‘Night Slows Down’ is currently on at the Kings Cross Theatre, written and directed by an extremely talented NIDA graduate, Phillip James Rouse. This play conveys the horror of a dystopian world where racism is de rigueur and the desire for short term profit ( on the part of the government) is so unbridled that a whole city could be wiped out. But Phillip cleverly focuses on one family to tease out the intricacies of this problem. This play is just so cleverly written, incorporating flashbacks as well as forward narrative, and is both compelling and humorous. Tension is sustained from the opening sentence and the ending is perfect.

I generally state that a play’s success is ninety percent on the shoulders of the actors. These three actors are superb. Danielle King is an actress whom I have seen across many genres, always convincing, always creating  complexity in her characterisation. She is so good that one can almost forget that one is watching a play. She is in wonderful form here. Johnny Nasser who plays her husband is perfectly cast and does a marvelous and sensitive portayal.  Andre De Vanny, ex Melbourne, did a fine job in the play Swan Song and also in ‘ Of Mice and Men’ for Sport for Jove, but in this play he is brilliant. His portrayal of Seth, a brutal nasty punk whose right wing sentiment enables him to do very well politically, exudes charm and sincerity even as he oversees social horrors. He shows us very clearly just how these political situations can happen. Bravo!

The set and lighting are extraordinary and frame the dystopia perfectly. There is such detail in the wall panels and the lighting bordering the stage is perfect to encase the action. It is impossible to understand just how this wonderful entertainment  can be offered for such a tiny price at this theatre. If you have never been the the KIngs Cross Theatre, then start with this play. If you love theatre do not miss this diamond!

I deferred reviewing View from the Bridge, currently at The Old Fitz because it has been sold out all season and I do not like to recommend a play for  which  tickets cannot be purchased. I just found out that this amazing production is to be extended at  Glen Street Theatre which is in Belrose, not too far away on the North Shore.

Arthur Miller’s 1950s play has been more successful in revivals that it was when first performed, although Arthur Miller was already wildly famous in 1955 when it was first performed. This production transcends the seventy years since it was written and credit for this must go to the direction by Iain Sinclair, and his assistant Andrew Henry. It is truly breathtaking. Iain has dared to pare the work back and in doing so has sculpted a performance that seems relevant  and is both exiting and palpable. The writing is illuminated brilliantly. Of course the actors must also take credit. I cannot remember a piece where every actor contributes so completely- it is like a world record relay team. Ivan Donato as Eddie is perfect. He is not a likeable character but Ivan enables us to completely understand him. Zoe Terakes- a school student who is making her debut- is remarkable as Catherine. Janine Watson, a very talented actress whom I have seen in several plays this year is quite sublime as Eddie’s wife Beatrice.  Giles Gartrell -Mills David Soncin ,Lincoln Younes and David Lynch all deserve to be mentioned simply because they are all wonderful. This play deserves a six month run. Do not miss it at Glen… like me you will be reflecting upon how fantastic it is for weeks after!