M. Butterfly

By Geoff Leeder On Friday night I attended the opening performance of M. Butterfly a GRADS production at the Dolphin Theatre directed by Barry Park. I won't go into the story line and spoil it for those of you who have not yet seen it, suffice to say that the narrative is based on the relationship between a French diplomat (Eliot McCann) and a Chinese opera singer and latter day Mata Hari (Charles McComb). This is a marvellous production and I congratulate all who contributed to it. The story centres on the two main characters with supporting roles by the remainder of the strong cast assisting the progression of the intriguing plot. I make no secret of the fact that I have long been an admirer of Mr McCann’s work on stage and he does not disappoint here. Eliot’s portrayal of the diplomat is so finely tuned and honest. Transitions from an ageing and bitter prisoner to a youthful and lustful younger man, simply done with a change in voice and facial expression, so convincing. Mr McComb too impressed me with his difficult role. Probably better known as a musical theatre performer Charles was the perfect choice for this character. His scenes with Eliot were absorbing, intense, emotional so many adjectives to describe them. A perfect pairing of two talented men who gave so much to each other to work with and against. I have already mentioned the well cast supporting roles but I will single out Tiana Morgan who played the diplomat’s wife. The scene between her and Eliot where their future relationship was determined was so well played in its brutal sincerity, a memorable moment in a production where there were many. I could go on singing the praises of this production but I will conclude by saying that it is one of the best Community Theatre productions I have seen. Don’t miss it. I should put this review on the Theatre Australia website but I rarely go there these days and only do so in a state of ennui and after a visit there my mood is never improved. In any case for some reason I can’t post to the site and can’t be bothered to find out why, so if any of my theatre colleagues who wish to re post this on that site have my permission to do so. This production needs an audience!