Ruben Guthrie

Alcohol consumption is an accepted part of the Australian way of life. When Sydney actor/writer Brendan Cowell took a year off the sauce a few years ago, his world was turned upside down, and Ruben Guthrie the play was born. Cowell’s authentic script shows how “giving it up” creates imbalance in the lives of all who surround the would-be abstainer.

Blue Cow Theatre, Hobart’s independent actors’ company presents Ruben Guthrie as its first production for 2012. Director Robert Jarman’s experience is subtly evident in this bold and often confronting production.

At age 29, Ruben Guthrie is on fire! He's the Creative Director of a cutting-edge advertising agency. Scott Farrow is an engaging and charismatic Ruben, engaged to Czech supermodel Zoya (Melanie Irons). Ruben pours himself a drink to celebrate, work, and sleep. One spectacular night he drinks so much he thinks he can fly. This incident is the wake-up call he needs to give up the grog and other addictions, which leads him to going to AA with his mum Sue (Chelle Burtt). Ruben fights his demons with the aid of AA sponsor Virginia, complicated and needy and a recovering alcoholic, played by classy and competent actor Mel King. Andrew Casey, as best friend and fellow imbiber Damian, is perfectly cast as the lustful gay friend, determined that his drinking buddy will not reform. Farrow and Casey are brilliantly funny, physical and naughty, representing the irresponsibility and hedonism of the Y Generation to perfection.

Farrow, relentlessly wired and energetic for almost all of the more than two hour show on a shiny-surfaced stage with only two  light-box cubes as set, is ably supported by Casey, King, Burtt and Irons and adaptable and accomplished actors Les Winspear as father Peter and experienced professional John Xintavelonis as boss Ray.

Did I mention Funny? Ruben Guthrie is side-splittingly hilarious, fast-paced as well as poignant and thought provoking. Be warned – this play has strong, frequent coarse language, sexual references/scenes, drug use and lots of laughter. Bloody brilliant, mate! Cheers!

Merlene Abbott 

Images: (top) Scott Farrow and Andrew Casey (lower) Scott Farrow, John Xintavelonis, Chelle Burtt, Les Winspear, Mel King and Melanie Irons. Photogrpher: Tony McKendrick.