Realism

Realism is a fascinating production about what happens inside an ordinary bloke's head, when he decides to do nothing all day.

Conversations with his dead mother, sexual memories and fantasies and visits from a childhood friend rattle by, influenced by the mundane tasks he is undertaking. A rant against a billing mistake becomes a production number from the Black and White Minstrel Show. The inside of Liam's brain is an interesting place.

As suggested by author Anthony Neilsen, the characters are given the names of the actors portraying them and localised slang and references are Australianised. This isn't always completely successful; The Black and White Minstrels don't have the same cultural resonance as in the UK (especially for a character who appears in his twenties) and heavy snowfalls don't ring true, even in Victoria, but there has been a decided effort to make this production topical.

WAAPA's Third Year actors, or at least the seven we saw in Realism, are excellent. Liam Maguire in the central role is wonderfully personable, so we forgive him (and embrace) his character's peculiarities and his lack of internal political correctness. With a less charming performer, this play could easily fall short. This is a top-notch performance from a committed, energetic young actor.

Alexis Lane and Ben Kindon play Liam's parents. They work nicely together, with Alexis Lane's surprise and inopportune appearances being a high point.

Present day friend, Adam (Sollis), and (we assume) childhood pal, Alfie (Alexander Frank), were both well portrayed with these actors also playing other quirky, clever characters.

Recently departed girlfriend, Kirsty (Marillier), and first love, Harriet (Davies), were also really nicely portrayed and I am rapidly becoming a fan of both these actresses, who have outstanding presence. Harriet Davies' performance was both brave and relaxed and her beautiful singing a lovely touch.

I loved the work of the Assistant Stage Managers, Sarah Roberts and Stephanie Tchorzewski who have more responsibility than would usually be required of an ASM and indeed may well be portraying Liam's fantasy of what the ideal Stage Assistant may be. Kudos to all of the Stage Management team, as this is a production that needs more than usual management.

While the audience was loving this show, not everything worked. The production number felt slightly self conscious and awkward, some jokes against the disabled were uncomfortable (although Adam Sollis playing Simon was brilliant) and the staging required by The Roundhouse's odd dimensions meant that some key moments were missed.

Ultimately this was an intriguing production that was well worth seeing, that highlighted the talents of WAAPA's students - both Third Year Acting and those in the production courses.

Kimberley Shaw

Photographer: Jon Green