The Birthday Party * * * * *

The Birthday Party - Dolphin Theatre (GRADS) I saw this production last night - my first taste of community theatre after moving to Perth 3 weeks ago from Sydney. If this is the general standard of community theatre in Perth, then it wins hands down to anything in NSW - WOW! Very professional. After studying Pinter at NIDA I was looking forward to seeing this production; Pinter is rarely done and often put in the too hard basket. Upon entering the theatre we were greeted with an empty stage - it didn't take long before the space came to life. I'm not sure if this effect is scripted but it was certainly very effective. Sound, lights, magic and the set was built before us and the actors put on costumes. You really felt as if something wonderful was about to happen - and it did. Great music - would love to know where it is from? The overall acting standard was very high and I suppose would have to be for a small cast of six. In summary: Jacqui Warner - Played a lovely version of Meg. Didn't know whether I wanted to pick her up and hug her or tell her to shut up! We all know people like this and her portrayal of the character was wonderful. Her scene with Stanley was very touching. Phil McKenzie - An older version of Petey than I was expecting but again a lovely character. I want him as my grandfather! Sometimes a little hard to hear but was a fantastic comparison to Meg. The closing scene was very touching. Martin Lindsay - I difficult part to play but Martin did a wonderful job. Always on the edge, never sure what he was going to do next. A solid performance and great stage presence. A very disturbing performance in Act three. Nyree Hughes - The tart from next door! Great performance and very natural, easy to watch feel about her performance. Found myself giggling with her in the party scene. Well done. Eddie Stowers - The hardest part - Goldberg. Overall great performance and wonderful voice. Looked a little unsure at times and hard to hear on occasions. Some wonderful scenes with McCann and Lulu. The charming devil! David Gregory - Still laughing now! Great performance and a lovely interpretation of McCann. Not sure if David is Irish - if not then great accent. Loved his little quirky gestures and expressions and the start of act two was hilarious! The whole cast was strong and worked very well together - would like to know how long they rehearsed for? All the other technical components were faultless - wonderful lighting that really captured the feel and moments and the music used was great- I want a copy! The director (Peter Clark) should be very happy with this show - a wonderful vision and interpretation. The set design - simple but effective - added to the intense nature on stage. It can be too easy to do Pinter badly - not the case with this production. I really felt like I was in the moment the whole time. Planning to see it again next week with some other NIDA friends. A big thumbs up and ***** all the way! Thank you for making my night enjoyable. AL x