Four Flat Whites in Italy at Cronulla
Audiences at Arts Theatre Cronulla are being transported to Italy throughout November 2018 as they witness the long-planned dream holiday of recently retired librarians Alison (Christine Morel) and Adrian (David Hines) in Four Flat Whites in Italy
by Roger Hall. Following an accident that sees their best friends withdraw from the trip, the retirees are fraught with worry until wealthy new neighbours Judy (Meili Bookluck) and husband Harry (Kevin Brest) readily volunteer to be replacements.
With a copy of Lonely Planet in one hand and an Italian phrasebook in the other, Alison in true librarian style leads the travellers throughVenice, Tuscany and the Eternal City, focusing on the abundance of high culture in art galleries and museums. Inevitably, due to the major differences in each couple’s budget, politics, backgrounds and attitudes to life, the trip is fraught with stresses and conflicts.
While the show is very much a comedy, as noted by the director in the program there are also some more serious undertones running throughout the play. In particular, the trials of a declining relationship following a family tragedy are explored, and in the midst of all the frivolity, misadventures and mishaps we see the individuals learn much about each other, as well as about themselves.
Two additional actors (Rhonda Rourke and Steve Keene) each play multiple roles, from Avis rent-a-car hostess and bored waitress to gondolier and gladiator, bringing a swag of familiar Italian tourist scenes to life.
The play runs from 26 October to 1 December 2018. Performances are on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm, with three Sunday afternoon matinees. Tickets are $28/$25 and can be booked online via the theatre’s website: www.artstheatrecronulla.com.au
Photos: Port Hacking Camera Club
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