Go and see "NUTS"

What a great show! At KADS on Saturday night, I had the privilege of sitting through one of the most enjoyable productions I've seen all year. Please don't be put off by the thought of a Barbra Streisand-oriented production; this is a true ensemble cast. Every character gets their opportunity to shine, even those that the audience may initially presume to be merely incidental (Claudia's parents and doctor, for instance).
As good as the entire cast was, special kudos must go to Dan and Renee for their performances. While everyone does indeed get their turn to shine, and Claudia's final impassioned plea provides the climax of the play, Dan is there from the start and holds the show together with his believable and determined performance throughout.
In the past I have been taken to task for gushing praise without any sort of counterbalance. However, the only criticism I could level at NUTS would be the stage setting. Unfortunately, I became more intimate with the back of Dan Walls' head than even the best of friends may expect, as he was confined much of the time to the Defence bench. Fortunately, this was a minor complaint and did not overly detract from the power of his performance or the impact of the play. One or two technical mishaps on the night provided momentary distractions but were quickly swept away by a production that never allowed one's attention to waver.
Congratulations to all involved. To everyone else, get tickets if you can!
Jarrod Buttery.