Tough Girls **** 1/2
Tue, 29 Aug 2006, 08:16 amGordon the Optom1 post in thread
Tough Girls **** 1/2
Tue, 29 Aug 2006, 08:16 amHow often have we heard the cry ‘There are virtually no decent parts for women, and if you are over 25 then forget it!’? But here we have an inventive and novel play (by Melissa Reeves) who has given this neglected group of actors a chance. The opportunity is grabbed and given the best quality treatment by an all girl cast and crew.
The show is demanding, being presented ‘in the round’, the difficulties of lighting are skilfully overcome and the cast connect with the audience throughout. It has uproarious well-timed humour, catchy live music and songs penned by Irine Vela and the author. The cast deliver the lyrics with enthusiasm and stacks of energy, to the superb accompaniment of Al Capone’s two daughters on a selection of instruments.
The story, which is based on a real series of events in Melbourne in the 80’s, takes place in a caravan park where Ella (Eileen Darley) a witness to a murder, is being guarded under a witness protection scheme by police woman (Caroline McKenzie). Dope Head Luce (Rhoda Lopez) an old friend of Ella appears, having had no problem whatsoever in finding this secret police hideout. Nearby is Vivien, ‘the worst bitch in Melbourne’ (Jacqy Phillips), a matriarchal gang leader who uses the ripest of language and is looking for Ella to kill her.
I often get asked why I give so many stars for shows and that I should mark lower. The standard of the shows in Perth recently has been extremely high and I challenge any one seeing this show to find fault. A hilarious well presented all-round show honed by director Maude Davey.
How often have we heard the cry ‘There are virtually no decent parts for women, and if you are over 25 then forget it!’? But here we have an inventive and novel play (by Melissa Reeves) who has given this neglected group of actors a chance. The opportunity is grabbed and given the best quality treatment by an all girl cast and crew.
The show is demanding, being presented ‘in the round’, the difficulties of lighting are skilfully overcome and the cast connect with the audience throughout. It has uproarious well-timed humour, catchy live music and songs penned by Irine Vela and the author. The cast deliver the lyrics with enthusiasm and stacks of energy, to the superb accompaniment of Al Capone’s two daughters on a selection of instruments.
The story, which is based on a real series of events in Melbourne in the 80’s, takes place in a caravan park where Ella (Eileen Darley) a witness to a murder, is being guarded under a witness protection scheme by police woman (Caroline McKenzie). Dope Head Luce (Rhoda Lopez) an old friend of Ella appears, having had no problem whatsoever in finding this secret police hideout. Nearby is Vivien, ‘the worst bitch in Melbourne’ (Jacqy Phillips), a matriarchal gang leader who uses the ripest of language and is looking for Ella to kill her.
I often get asked why I give so many stars for shows and that I should mark lower. The standard of the shows in Perth recently has been extremely high and I challenge any one seeing this show to find fault. A hilarious well presented all-round show honed by director Maude Davey.