SHE STOOPED - SHE CONQUERED!

She Stoops to Conquer – GRADS (Dolphin Theatre UWA) Directed by Stephen Lee We saw this show last night and were genuinely impressed with the entire production. Stephen and the gang have really pulled out all the stops and delivered a fantastic version of this well know Goldsmith classic. The play was first performed in London in 1773 but still works today (as most of the old classics do) especially when approached by an experienced and capable crew and cast – like this one. This production succeeded for two reasons a) Fantastic direction b) Strong cast. All the other components including set, lighting, costume etc... only secured an inevitable success. Stephen Lee’s direction throughout this production was faultless. He has taken the best bits of comedy theatre over the years and mixed it with his own initiative/foresight and created a slick, humorous, seamless piece of comedy theatre that bounces along and never loses pace, energy or direction. You can see his direction oozing through the characters and making those ‘special moments’ (the ones you always remember) one’s that work time and time again. After seeing a production like this you are clearly reminded why Mr Lee is ranked as one of the better directors in Perth – it’s based on fact and should be recognised. Huge amounts of respect – the dog’s #ollocks! The cast as a whole was fantastic. All the principle roles were strong and it was also nice to see a solid base of support cast as well. They made the characters their own and had fun doing it! David Gregory’s performance of Charles Marlow was outstanding. Great comic timing, facial expressions, light and shade throughout scenes and just his overall dedication and commitment to the role. I have worked with David on a couple of occasions and his ability and stage persona seems to get stronger and stronger with experience. Who would have thought that mumbling into the floor could have been so funny – well done! Domini Anderson (Kate Hardcastle) also delivered a strong performance from start to finish and looked fantastic in classic dress (as per usual!). A lovely naturalness on stage and ability to jump between drama and extreme farcical moments. Great chemistry between her and Marlow. The standout character performance was Kerri Hilton as Mrs Hardcastle – absolutely bloody hilarious! It’s been a long time since I have seen such an extreme character role performed so well. Kerri’s commitment to her character from start to finish was faultless – she never let go or stepped out. Wonderful comic timing, strength on stage, interaction and reaction skills and dedication. I joy to watch from start to finish. I think Lady Bracknell should be on the cards next! Barry Park (Mr Hardcastle) gave a strong performance throughout and it was great to see him in a slightly more comical role – wonderful moments. David Bruce as George Hastings also held his own (not literally) and delivered a great emotionally varied performance. Again another actor going from strength to strength. Jonathan Best as Tony Lumpkin gave a very passionate performance; full of energy. However, it did occasionally remind me of Jim Carrey – extreme facial expressions and movements (perhaps one step too far) but 10/10 for energy. Martin Forsey (Charles Marlow) had a smaller role in this production (last scene) but still provided great stage presence and energy to the closing scenes. Both Pimple (Sarah Isaacson) and Constance Neville (Elena Vettorel) both performed extremely well and had great character interactions with other members of the cast. Both appeared comfortable and in control. To the rest of the cast (not mentioned) well done! All roles worked well and the overall ensemble was fantastic. Costumes & lights were both good and added to the overall effect. Also use of the ‘revolve’ worked well and nice ‘business’ around making it happen. If I would have changed anything I would have cut the Prologue (not required and not relevant) and also the singing (although Domini singing voice was very good). Felt these two points slowed down the action and for a show that is already fairly lengthy would have assisted with more bar time! Overall – Great! One of the better shows I have seen in the last couple of years. The show finishes this Saturday 14th November – so only three (3) shows left remaining. If you have a free night – go and see it. It is well worth the time and money. You may have the sudden urge to rush home and make loafs of bread after! Much respect & best wishes for the last three shows Stephen & Crew. Have a wild party Saturday night – you all deserve it! Peter