Tequila Mockingbird

Tequila Mockingbird
Writer: Nelle Lee. Presented by Shake and Stir Theatre Company & QPAC. Director: Michael Futcher. Cremorne Theatre, Brisbane. 5 - 15 October 2016, then touring statewide

Shake & Stir are presenting this award-winning repeat production from 2013 here in Brisbane as the beginning of a Queensland tour. It's a good choice for further presentation having a superb team at the helm and a well-conceived adaptation of the time-worn themes of racial tension and alcohol in our community, particularly in more tight-knit Australian towns.

Nelle Lee's absorbing, even at times humorous, script (complete with a reference to Mexican culture to embrace the ingenious title) is well conceived, tight and very real in its exposition of these topical subjects. But what is most impressive about this company, albeit cast and director, is the ability to stage a riveting theatrical experience in such a minimalistic way.

Josh McIntosh's simplistic kaleidoscopic contemporary set design, also used in the initial 2013 production, is mesmerising coupled with Jason Glenwright's superb lighting design.

Great performances from all the cast, in particular versatile Barbara Lowing as the amiable bartender, snooping neighbour and nasty small-town evil mom, with violent son in tow.

With such a talented small team capable of multi-tasking even on stage, Shake & Stir's unique style of presentation is always well worth a visit.

Brian Adamson

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