What's Up Doc?
Fri, 2 Mar 2001, 12:30 amWalter Plinge11 posts in thread
What's Up Doc?
Fri, 2 Mar 2001, 12:30 amI suppose I could start by answering Gill's question: Many, many, MANY years ago I saw the movie "Harvey". I couldn't remember much of the specifics, but I did remember that I enjoyed it. So when I saw (not on this page, tut, tut, tut) that KADS was doing the stage version, I thought that it would be interesting to see. When I heard that Ray Egan was playing the lead, I decided that this was a must-see. Ray is one of my favourite actors in Perth - a consummate amateur ("For the love of..."), a truly believable actor, and a helluva nice bloke.
As Elwood P. Dowd (with a "w", not a "u"), Ray surprised the hell out of me as he came on stage, opened his mouth... and all the lines came out of his nose. An authentically nasal American accent, and a damn impressive Jimmy Stewart impersonation, to boot! I'll admit that this bothered me a little initially - not the accent itself, which was flawless - but the choice to deliberately mimic Jimmy Stewart. It almost seemed a cliche, and I wondered if the audience were thinking, "Listen, he's doing Jimmy Stewart," rather than paying attention to the dialogue. But I soon settled into it, and my concerns are probably just me talking rubbish as usual.
As good as Ray was, I think the show was almost stolen from him by a wonderful perfomance from Barbara Reynolds as Elwood's sister, Veta. I don't know whether it was natural or assumed, but that was the best American accent I've heard in a long time. Veta exuded matriarchal authority as well as pent-up frustration as she reached the end of her tether with Elwood and his "socially embarrassing" 6'1.5" invisible white rabbit. Her scene at the start of Act 2, after she'd just escaped from the sanatorium, was a riot, and was rewarded by a well-deserved spontaneous round of applause.
Also impressive werePaul Abbott, whom I enjoyed in "Lady Windemere's Fan" last year, and newcomer Claire Steele. A large role for Claire and an impressive, energetic debut, aided by immaculate period hair, make-up and costume (although, drawing a pencil line on the back of a pair of pantihose, doesn't make them 1950s nylons, Liza). And I'm surprised there's any scenery left after Peter Cross and Peter Fry got through chewing it to pieces every night.
The set was upto the usual KADS standard, but the music, unfortunately, wasn't. KADS' previous two productions had set the scene marvellously with introductory music ("Picasso at the Lapin Agile" transported us to 1900s Paris with French accompaniment, and the play before that thrust us into the 1970s with lovemeister Barry White). "Harvey" opened with some discordant piano tinkling which segued into eerie X-Files-type music. Sorry, but it didn't work for me.
The set was a marvel. A two-door opulent American sitting room box set, transformed between scenes into a sterile four-door hospital antechamber box set. Even the colour of the walls seemed different through lighting wizardry. Although, with such a small stage as KADS, it seemed a pity that it couldn't be fully lit. We tended to lose actors in shadow every time they ventured downstage left (which wasn't often, fortunately).
"Harvey" endured some trials during production. A change of director and promotion of Ray Egan to male lead halfway through rehearsals, would have undoubtedly put a lot of strain on those involved. Director Anita Bound and her cast and crew are to be congratulated for pulling it all together and presenting a sweet, old-fashioned comedy, which, if the laughter is any indication, was thoroughly enjoyed.
JB
As Elwood P. Dowd (with a "w", not a "u"), Ray surprised the hell out of me as he came on stage, opened his mouth... and all the lines came out of his nose. An authentically nasal American accent, and a damn impressive Jimmy Stewart impersonation, to boot! I'll admit that this bothered me a little initially - not the accent itself, which was flawless - but the choice to deliberately mimic Jimmy Stewart. It almost seemed a cliche, and I wondered if the audience were thinking, "Listen, he's doing Jimmy Stewart," rather than paying attention to the dialogue. But I soon settled into it, and my concerns are probably just me talking rubbish as usual.
As good as Ray was, I think the show was almost stolen from him by a wonderful perfomance from Barbara Reynolds as Elwood's sister, Veta. I don't know whether it was natural or assumed, but that was the best American accent I've heard in a long time. Veta exuded matriarchal authority as well as pent-up frustration as she reached the end of her tether with Elwood and his "socially embarrassing" 6'1.5" invisible white rabbit. Her scene at the start of Act 2, after she'd just escaped from the sanatorium, was a riot, and was rewarded by a well-deserved spontaneous round of applause.
Also impressive werePaul Abbott, whom I enjoyed in "Lady Windemere's Fan" last year, and newcomer Claire Steele. A large role for Claire and an impressive, energetic debut, aided by immaculate period hair, make-up and costume (although, drawing a pencil line on the back of a pair of pantihose, doesn't make them 1950s nylons, Liza). And I'm surprised there's any scenery left after Peter Cross and Peter Fry got through chewing it to pieces every night.
The set was upto the usual KADS standard, but the music, unfortunately, wasn't. KADS' previous two productions had set the scene marvellously with introductory music ("Picasso at the Lapin Agile" transported us to 1900s Paris with French accompaniment, and the play before that thrust us into the 1970s with lovemeister Barry White). "Harvey" opened with some discordant piano tinkling which segued into eerie X-Files-type music. Sorry, but it didn't work for me.
The set was a marvel. A two-door opulent American sitting room box set, transformed between scenes into a sterile four-door hospital antechamber box set. Even the colour of the walls seemed different through lighting wizardry. Although, with such a small stage as KADS, it seemed a pity that it couldn't be fully lit. We tended to lose actors in shadow every time they ventured downstage left (which wasn't often, fortunately).
"Harvey" endured some trials during production. A change of director and promotion of Ray Egan to male lead halfway through rehearsals, would have undoubtedly put a lot of strain on those involved. Director Anita Bound and her cast and crew are to be congratulated for pulling it all together and presenting a sweet, old-fashioned comedy, which, if the laughter is any indication, was thoroughly enjoyed.
JB
Walter PlingeFri, 2 Mar 2001, 12:30 am
I suppose I could start by answering Gill's question: Many, many, MANY years ago I saw the movie "Harvey". I couldn't remember much of the specifics, but I did remember that I enjoyed it. So when I saw (not on this page, tut, tut, tut) that KADS was doing the stage version, I thought that it would be interesting to see. When I heard that Ray Egan was playing the lead, I decided that this was a must-see. Ray is one of my favourite actors in Perth - a consummate amateur ("For the love of..."), a truly believable actor, and a helluva nice bloke.
As Elwood P. Dowd (with a "w", not a "u"), Ray surprised the hell out of me as he came on stage, opened his mouth... and all the lines came out of his nose. An authentically nasal American accent, and a damn impressive Jimmy Stewart impersonation, to boot! I'll admit that this bothered me a little initially - not the accent itself, which was flawless - but the choice to deliberately mimic Jimmy Stewart. It almost seemed a cliche, and I wondered if the audience were thinking, "Listen, he's doing Jimmy Stewart," rather than paying attention to the dialogue. But I soon settled into it, and my concerns are probably just me talking rubbish as usual.
As good as Ray was, I think the show was almost stolen from him by a wonderful perfomance from Barbara Reynolds as Elwood's sister, Veta. I don't know whether it was natural or assumed, but that was the best American accent I've heard in a long time. Veta exuded matriarchal authority as well as pent-up frustration as she reached the end of her tether with Elwood and his "socially embarrassing" 6'1.5" invisible white rabbit. Her scene at the start of Act 2, after she'd just escaped from the sanatorium, was a riot, and was rewarded by a well-deserved spontaneous round of applause.
Also impressive werePaul Abbott, whom I enjoyed in "Lady Windemere's Fan" last year, and newcomer Claire Steele. A large role for Claire and an impressive, energetic debut, aided by immaculate period hair, make-up and costume (although, drawing a pencil line on the back of a pair of pantihose, doesn't make them 1950s nylons, Liza). And I'm surprised there's any scenery left after Peter Cross and Peter Fry got through chewing it to pieces every night.
The set was upto the usual KADS standard, but the music, unfortunately, wasn't. KADS' previous two productions had set the scene marvellously with introductory music ("Picasso at the Lapin Agile" transported us to 1900s Paris with French accompaniment, and the play before that thrust us into the 1970s with lovemeister Barry White). "Harvey" opened with some discordant piano tinkling which segued into eerie X-Files-type music. Sorry, but it didn't work for me.
The set was a marvel. A two-door opulent American sitting room box set, transformed between scenes into a sterile four-door hospital antechamber box set. Even the colour of the walls seemed different through lighting wizardry. Although, with such a small stage as KADS, it seemed a pity that it couldn't be fully lit. We tended to lose actors in shadow every time they ventured downstage left (which wasn't often, fortunately).
"Harvey" endured some trials during production. A change of director and promotion of Ray Egan to male lead halfway through rehearsals, would have undoubtedly put a lot of strain on those involved. Director Anita Bound and her cast and crew are to be congratulated for pulling it all together and presenting a sweet, old-fashioned comedy, which, if the laughter is any indication, was thoroughly enjoyed.
JB
As Elwood P. Dowd (with a "w", not a "u"), Ray surprised the hell out of me as he came on stage, opened his mouth... and all the lines came out of his nose. An authentically nasal American accent, and a damn impressive Jimmy Stewart impersonation, to boot! I'll admit that this bothered me a little initially - not the accent itself, which was flawless - but the choice to deliberately mimic Jimmy Stewart. It almost seemed a cliche, and I wondered if the audience were thinking, "Listen, he's doing Jimmy Stewart," rather than paying attention to the dialogue. But I soon settled into it, and my concerns are probably just me talking rubbish as usual.
As good as Ray was, I think the show was almost stolen from him by a wonderful perfomance from Barbara Reynolds as Elwood's sister, Veta. I don't know whether it was natural or assumed, but that was the best American accent I've heard in a long time. Veta exuded matriarchal authority as well as pent-up frustration as she reached the end of her tether with Elwood and his "socially embarrassing" 6'1.5" invisible white rabbit. Her scene at the start of Act 2, after she'd just escaped from the sanatorium, was a riot, and was rewarded by a well-deserved spontaneous round of applause.
Also impressive werePaul Abbott, whom I enjoyed in "Lady Windemere's Fan" last year, and newcomer Claire Steele. A large role for Claire and an impressive, energetic debut, aided by immaculate period hair, make-up and costume (although, drawing a pencil line on the back of a pair of pantihose, doesn't make them 1950s nylons, Liza). And I'm surprised there's any scenery left after Peter Cross and Peter Fry got through chewing it to pieces every night.
The set was upto the usual KADS standard, but the music, unfortunately, wasn't. KADS' previous two productions had set the scene marvellously with introductory music ("Picasso at the Lapin Agile" transported us to 1900s Paris with French accompaniment, and the play before that thrust us into the 1970s with lovemeister Barry White). "Harvey" opened with some discordant piano tinkling which segued into eerie X-Files-type music. Sorry, but it didn't work for me.
The set was a marvel. A two-door opulent American sitting room box set, transformed between scenes into a sterile four-door hospital antechamber box set. Even the colour of the walls seemed different through lighting wizardry. Although, with such a small stage as KADS, it seemed a pity that it couldn't be fully lit. We tended to lose actors in shadow every time they ventured downstage left (which wasn't often, fortunately).
"Harvey" endured some trials during production. A change of director and promotion of Ray Egan to male lead halfway through rehearsals, would have undoubtedly put a lot of strain on those involved. Director Anita Bound and her cast and crew are to be congratulated for pulling it all together and presenting a sweet, old-fashioned comedy, which, if the laughter is any indication, was thoroughly enjoyed.
JB
Walter PlingeFri, 2 Mar 2001, 12:35 am
RE: What's Up Doc?
PS: We'll all have to be careful about what we say about Peter Fry from now on. Apparently, he's been dragged kicking and screaming into the 21st century. Look for him on this page soon. Be afraid. Be very afraid...
JB
JB
limelight6076Sat, 3 Mar 2001, 03:35 pm
I'm Hunting rabbit!
Thanks Jarred on the comments. I am glad you did enjoy it.
Just to let you in on the music. The style of the play is "Comedy of fantasy" so the music reflects it. Anita chose the piano music to give the bubbly feel to the start of the show, in keeping with the comedy aspect.
The errie X-Files music you talk of is actual Celtic music to represent both the fantasy side if things and also the fact that Harvey is a pooka (a celtic word meening mischievious spirit).
An the shaddows in the corners of the stage. The lighting of the play is infact two compleetly different rigs. KADS has a limited amount of equipment available so what we would normally use for a single "play" was split in half to do two jobs. This fact also pissed me off even more than it did you, but hey life still continues to prosper.
I would like to thank all those hwo have seen the show for comming along.
We were told that HARVEY couldn't be achieved on KADS stage due to the "technical requirements involved", but hey if thou thinks positive then one can achieve greatness.
Aaron
PS: I will be running a Introduction to Lighting Course at KADS in September 2001 for those who are intrested. If anybody is intrested pls email me at limelight6076@yahoo.com to obtain info.
Just to let you in on the music. The style of the play is "Comedy of fantasy" so the music reflects it. Anita chose the piano music to give the bubbly feel to the start of the show, in keeping with the comedy aspect.
The errie X-Files music you talk of is actual Celtic music to represent both the fantasy side if things and also the fact that Harvey is a pooka (a celtic word meening mischievious spirit).
An the shaddows in the corners of the stage. The lighting of the play is infact two compleetly different rigs. KADS has a limited amount of equipment available so what we would normally use for a single "play" was split in half to do two jobs. This fact also pissed me off even more than it did you, but hey life still continues to prosper.
I would like to thank all those hwo have seen the show for comming along.
We were told that HARVEY couldn't be achieved on KADS stage due to the "technical requirements involved", but hey if thou thinks positive then one can achieve greatness.
Aaron
PS: I will be running a Introduction to Lighting Course at KADS in September 2001 for those who are intrested. If anybody is intrested pls email me at limelight6076@yahoo.com to obtain info.
Don AllenMon, 5 Mar 2001, 10:54 am
RE: I'm Hunting rabbit!
If you are running community lighting courses you are eligible for Lotteries funding through Gordon Reid Foundation funding. It has changed to (I think) $5000 over three years. We have got several rounds of funding at the Garrick as I train High School students, Scouts and Guides and other community groups. You have to put in a percentage yourselves. I run the lighting courses over three Sundays, this weekend is the third in the current series.
Walter PlingeWed, 7 Mar 2001, 11:48 am
RE: What's Up Doc?
I am astounded at Jarrods advice to "be afraid";--a more harmless and sensitive person would be hard to find.Any comments I may make through this medium will be made in a most caring & helpful at all times.I have no time for the bitchiness & jealousy which sometimes pervades the Theatre scene.And as for GOSSIP I just don't want to hear ANY thank you!!!
I will though express some dissapointment at the obscure & baffling reference to myself & Peter Cross destroying the scenery in JBs crit of HARVEY.
After travelling from Glendalough to Kalamunda on a Posties bike for rehearsals & performances one doesn't expect to be dismissed with a fatuous one liner.
Next time I would urge the reviewer to look for the subtleties in the acting & how the subtext is being explored. But Hey, this isn't a complaint!
CHEERS to all in Theatre land. DOT COM.( Friend of Gert by Sea)
I will though express some dissapointment at the obscure & baffling reference to myself & Peter Cross destroying the scenery in JBs crit of HARVEY.
After travelling from Glendalough to Kalamunda on a Posties bike for rehearsals & performances one doesn't expect to be dismissed with a fatuous one liner.
Next time I would urge the reviewer to look for the subtleties in the acting & how the subtext is being explored. But Hey, this isn't a complaint!
CHEERS to all in Theatre land. DOT COM.( Friend of Gert by Sea)
Walter PlingeWed, 7 Mar 2001, 10:25 pm
RE: What's Up Doc?
Ladies and Gentlemen: Mr Peter Fry.
Don't say I didn't warn you.
JB
Don't say I didn't warn you.
JB
Grant MalcolmWed, 7 Mar 2001, 10:47 pm
RE: What's Up Doc?
Welcome on board, Peter!
I had a quick check to see what might have been said about you before you arrived, as it were. Click on the links below to have a peek. I think you'll be delighted to see that it's been entirely complimentary.
I wonder how long that will last?
;-)
Cheers
Grant
I had a quick check to see what might have been said about you before you arrived, as it were. Click on the links below to have a peek. I think you'll be delighted to see that it's been entirely complimentary.
I wonder how long that will last?
;-)
Cheers
Grant
Walter PlingeThu, 8 Mar 2001, 10:44 am
RE: What's Up Doc?
I think he was ......em.........joking.........it's a late 20th/ 21st century expression......usually said with affection.....:)
Lighten up man.......
Walter PlingeThu, 8 Mar 2001, 11:05 am
RE: What's Up Doc?
Hey J,
It's very generous of you to refer to my mindless postings as "jokes". Peter and I are old friends (except he's somewhat older than I) and I have very fond memories about vigorously slapping him around and spitting all over him in the last production we did together. However, I am fully aware of Peter's repertoire of painful jokes and excrutiating puns (note his posting), and felt it was my duty to inform the cyber-community of what was about to befall them. I got a great laugh out of Peter's reply - sarcasm is often referred to as "the lowest form of humour" and that's probably why it appeals to me so much.
Thanks for playing,
JB
It's very generous of you to refer to my mindless postings as "jokes". Peter and I are old friends (except he's somewhat older than I) and I have very fond memories about vigorously slapping him around and spitting all over him in the last production we did together. However, I am fully aware of Peter's repertoire of painful jokes and excrutiating puns (note his posting), and felt it was my duty to inform the cyber-community of what was about to befall them. I got a great laugh out of Peter's reply - sarcasm is often referred to as "the lowest form of humour" and that's probably why it appeals to me so much.
Thanks for playing,
JB
Walter PlingeMon, 12 Mar 2001, 11:12 pm
RE: What's Up Doc?
It is a complete fabrication that I have been patiently assiting Peter Fry to develop basic PC and internet skills!
[Is that OK Peter? ]
[Is that OK Peter? ]
Walter PlingeTue, 13 Mar 2001, 09:38 am
RE: What's Up Doc?
Being aware of Peters method of transport (two-wheeled and greatly under-powered), I assume he is using an IBM 286 he picked up at the local "Save the Planet" Jumble Sale!