Popcorn

Garrick Theatre’s Popcorn explores the glamorous Hollywood lifestyle, with a murder or two, or more, in a slick production with some superb performances.

The “movie” atmosphere is established in the foyer, with decorations and chocolate sales from some friendly ushers, before we are transported to a luxury home in Beverly Hills, the home of action film director Bruce Delamitri - expertly created, and looking quite spacious, despite the compact Garrick stage, by Graeme Dick (who also takes on the late-to-the stage role of Bill). Hollywood glamour is created through the costuming by Colleen Bradford, who also pulls double duty as Kirsten.

Successful movie director Bruce Delamitri is created convincingly by Tim Fraser, who anchors the show well in a very solid performance. His estranged wife is played by Sarah House, who believably drips money and privilege, while teenage daughter Velvet is nicely portrayed by Sophie David. Australian movie producer Karl Brezner is played with appropriate bluster by Gavin Crane, with Sherryl Spencer excellent as the beautiful Playboy Centrefold and actress, Brooke Daniels.

Bursting into this world of wealth and prestige are a pair from the wrong side of the tracks, the infamous Mall Murderers, who may or may not have drawn inspiration from Delamitri’s films. Outstanding performances from Tim Presant as Wayne Hudson and Sjaan Lucas as his girlfriend Scout.

This show has stunning pace and skilfully blends tension with humour in a very black comedy by Fremantle’s Ben Elton. While a few of Garrick’s regular patrons have found the language and subject matter a little racy, this adult comedy still has very broad appeal and is well worth a look.

Kimberley Shaw

Photographer: Michael McAllan