Reviews

A man sits at a manual typewriter, more in thought than hitting the keys, though the occasional tat-tat-tattat-tat punctuates our pre-show conversations. It’s a smart device to draw us into the world we’re about to experience on stage, which is then pierced when the lights go down and the man addresses us directly.

One of Spare Parts Puppet Theatre’s most loved shows returns to the stage these school holidays – playing at the Ellie Eaton Theatre, at Claremont Showground. This generously sized theatre allows for bigger audiences – and Spare Parts use the adjoining pavilion for activities before and after each show.

This is an ‘opera seria’ where Greek myths are reimagined through the lens of the Enlightenment period. The references to the awesome power of nature and the incredible emotional impact this has on the characters are all profoundly explored in this complex text. Set during the Trojan War, Idomeneo (Steve Davislim) challenges the commands of the God Neptune (Simon Meadows) and this results in a reign of natural terror on the kingdom.

Primadonna Productions rocked the Pinjarra Civic Centre with its vibrant production of jukebox musical Rockin’ Robin. Performed by a young cast, the story centres around young Maddie and her love interest Will, who during a Rock Eisteddfod rehearsal are magically transported in time and place to Sherwood Forest, at the time of Robin Hood.

Featuring some familiar popping tunes that had the audience tapping their feet, this fun little tale was well told and beautifully sung by this strong and keen young ensemble.