Other Desert Cities

Other Desert Cities
By Jon Robin Baitz. Playlovers. Directed by Barry Park. Old Mill Theatre, South Perth, WA. Aug 4-19, 2017

The currently homeless Playlovers has taken temporary residence at South Perth’s Old Mill Theatre, with a nicely polished, well directed production of Jon Robin Baitz’s Other Desert Cities.

Director Barry Park’s set design, brought to fruition by Greg Aylmer, convincingly creates the living room of wealthy Palm Springs couple, Lymen and Polly Wyeth. The set was solid, believable and classy, and did not feel crowded on the compact Old Mill stage.

A very strong cast worked well together, creating believable family dynamics.

Catalyst character Brooke Wyeth has written a book which exposes a family secret. Brooke is played with great credence by Sally Bareness, who brought much depth to the role. 

Brooke’s parents were played with sophistication by Dan McAskil and Cate Jennings, working well together and bringing much light and shade.

Slightly eccentric Aunt Silda was expertly played by Chandra Wyatt, an audience favourite with lovely nuance. Rounding out the cast was Steven Hounsome as Tripp Wyeth, in a very solid performance.

Lighting was well designed by John Woolrych, and neatly operated by Jack Bengough, while Daniel Toomath controlled sound well.

This is a very tight, very slick production, with much to admire. I highly recommend that all Playlovers supporters see this production as a gesture of support as they fight for their venue. You will not be disappointed with this show.

Kimberley Shaw

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