Nothing Personal

Beautifully cast, nicely staged and well directed, this production has almost everything going for it.  David Williamson sets the scene inside a publishing house, which pits a formidable publisher Bea against a younger rival Naomi.

The issues are laid out clearly. Bea – an older woman stands for literary quality, whilst the much younger and slimmer Naomi is pushing for sales. 

Although written before the Fifty Shades of Grey phenomenon, Williamson has foretold the delicate dilemma which crosses the desks and minds of publishers. Can they afford the risk of rejecting books which might be the next trashy blockbuster?

The two women looked the part. Laurel McGowan – the intimidating, imperious yet vulnerable old guard against young blonde Alexis Hammerton, only recently out of acting school.

Shane Bates gave strong support as Roxanne, the loyal publishing assistant. Ted Crosby was sweet as Naomi’s long-suffering boyfriend.

Also looking the part was Patrick Costello – Kelvin – the playboy owner of the publishing company.

Although set at many different scenes – from a publishing office, to a home, to a Byron Bay retreat, the transfers were managed skilfully by the set co-ordinator Garry Bates.

There were lots of laughs for the audience along the way but perhaps the only weakness is that the drama traversed a predictable route.

Overall another value packed night of entertainment from the Genesians.

David Spicer

Photographer: Grant Fraser

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Genesians Season 2016