The Pitch

‘The Pitch’ is a spoof on Hollywood screenwriting, written by Peter Houghton. It has had an amazing nine Green Room nominations, being the winner of four Awards, including performance and best new play. This Palpable Hits Production is presented by the Black Swan Theatre Company & Critical Stages, and is showing at the Subiaco Arts Centre nightly, at 7.30, from Tuesday 23^rd July to Saturday 2^nd August.
It is worth entering the auditorium early and trying to spot the films from the melange of pre-show music.

The action takes place in the modest accommodation of aspiring screenwriter Walter Weinermann (Peter Houghton). He has an hour left in which to prepare for the treasured ten-minute slot that he has been allotted, in which to present a script pitch to potential film producers. This meeting will make or break his career, so there is a great deal at stake. It is his sole chance to attain fame, and possibly win the girl of his dreams.

            ‘The Pitch’ that he presents has all of the well-worn genres and clichés, plus action, mystery, misery, romance and spoof. His ‘film’ is set in exotic locations all over the world. Walter's film pitch involves him presenting Hollywood greats such as Anthony Hopkins, Clint Eastwood and even a dazzling sexy Catherine Zeta Jones who morphs into Russell Crowe. They truly come alive through his excellent theatre skills - physical gestures, poses and supple vocals. You will feel convinced that you have seen his movie.

An almost schizophrenic Houghton presented a gamut of characters, emotions and absurd scenarios flawlessly in the 80-minute high energy, fast-paced performance. He vocally created all the sound effects and musical instruments. Anne Browning’s direction was inventive and meticulous.

Houghton’s show, which was critically acclaimed in Melbourne in 2006 and 2007, has toured extensively since, including a most successful season at the Edinburgh Festival.

Peter’s delivery was a blend of a manic Basil Fawlty and Robin Williams on speed. Despite hundreds of performances, the show still has a magical freshness. Loads of laughs, captivatingly funny.