Venus in Fur

Venus in Fur
By David Ives. Melville Theatre, WA. Directed by Trevor Dhu. Feb 16 - Mar 3, 2018

Melville Theatre’s Venus in Fur, written by David Ives, is a dynamic and expertly presented two-hander that had the audience on the edge of their seats.

Set in New York, Thomas Novachek is directing his own adaptation of Venus in Fur, and lamenting the suitability of the actresses who have auditioned for lead character Wanda von Dunayev, when actress Vanda Jordan crashes into the room and demands an audition. Despite seeming obviously unsuitable, her reading is amazing and the lines between the novel, the play and life become increasingly blurred.

Grace Edwards was a stunning Vanda, who was at once exasperating and exciting, demanding and dynamic; an absolutely compelling performance, in which she owned the stage. Thomas Dimmick was excellent as namesake Thomas (a really interesting naming coincidence that pushes the reality vs fiction lines even further). A clever, deep and nuanced performance. The pair had a wonderful on stage relationship that was beautifully structured by director Trevor Dhu.

Set design, by the director, was believable and functional. Lars Jensen’s lighting design was great fuel for the plot, and Barbara Lovell’s sound design was excellent - both aspects beautifully timed by operator Trevor Dhu.

A very high quality production that provides much to ponder. Congratulations to all involved.

Kimberley Shaw

Subscribe to our E-Newsletter, buy our latest print edition or find a Performing Arts book at Book Nook.