Reviews

Supported by Slingsby and Brink Productions and presented by Caitlin Ellen Moore (Wicked Good Productions) and Tim Overton, Dead Man’s Cell Phone (Sarah Ruhl 2008) is a whimsical glimpse into a collection of absurd moments in the lives of several people linked by one unexpected and unexplained death.  This play is also presented as part of State Theatre Company SA’s generous and important Stateside program, supporting smaller local theatre companies to produce new work.

As the audience enters the theatre, we are welcomed by “Roll Up! Roll Up! Come, marvel, be amazed!” Indeed, we are amazed! Here, from her lofty post, is a woman of uncommon height who describes herself in the manner of a carnival barker. Audience members are encouraged to take a selfie with this giantess – and I assure you, it isn’t easy, even with Mariedl (played by the excellent Maxi Blaha) bending to get in shot. (For the sake of Stage Whispers readership, I shan’t share my selfie!)

This show is a bit of a dark horse – a little, locally written Irish, domestic drama, unpretentious and female dominated, but this show is a heavy hitter in terms of quality – a top notch production that deserves to be seen.

First played at the Irish Club, in an impressive production by Irish Theatre Players, this more fully realised production (in terms of set etc) allows the show to soar.

After a particularly fraught opening, and delays caused by Covid in the cast then bushfire evacuation, Wanneroo Repertory finally opened their quality production of Company. Now playing to capacity crowds, this is a superbly sung, expertly acted show.

On the evening of his 35th birthday, Robert, the lone bachelor in his friend group, surrounded by his crazy couple friends, contemplates whether to wish for a romantic partner or to be happy with his situation.