Mother Courage and Her Children
By Bertolt Brecht and Tony Kushner. Directed by Armani Newton-Lowe, Keira Lilly, Tahlia Padayachee, David Phillips, Annabelle Turner, Tyler Hewitt and Hannah Cooke. Willeton Senior High School, WA. Apr4-5, 2023
Willetton Senior High School’s annual Dinner Theatre is a tradition that showcases the talents of their Year 12 Drama Students and the Year 12 (and 11) Cooking and Hospitality Students. While Brecht is rather an unconventional choice for a dinner theatre, the experience was clearly enjoyed by the audience.
The show, selected by the audience, was directed by a team of directors, each responsible for a scene or two - and while the different hands of the directors are evident - once you are aware of this it adds an interesting element to the experience. Set on a close to bare stage, and played traverse style between the tables, strong and vibrant lighting, designed by David Phillips, helps to add atmosphere. Even more colourful are the costumes, designed by Keira Lilly and Keely Dunsire, which despite the 17th century setting of the story tend towards the extremes of mid to late 20th century fashion - often with a Sergeant Pepper feel. Sound design from Xavier Nelson and Oliver Viljoen is eclectic and interesting.
Hannah Cooke very nicely embodies the title role of Mother Courage, with Mischa Hartle expertly and sensitively portraying the silent role of mute daughter Katrin. David Phillips brings gravity and depth to son Eilif, with Tyler Hewitt more comedic in his portrayal of second son, nicknamed Swiss Cheese.
Keira Lilley has a great deal of stage time, and is a pleasure to watch, very distinctly playing four roles, including the significant role of the Cook. Annabelle Turner is strong as The Chaplain. Armani Newton-Lowe brings credence and thoughtful characterisation to the role of Yvette.
Effective support came from Gage Gurney, Keeley Dunsire, Oliver Viljoen, Tahlia Padayachee and Xavier Nelson, all playing multiple roles with style.
Year 12 Certificate II Hospitality students provided a delicious three course meal which included a tasting platter entree, main course of Roasted Spiced Chicken or Slow Roasted Lamb Shanks, with dessert of Chocolate Mousse Tart or Raspberry and Nougat Ice-cream Pudding. Beautifully prepared, delicious, and served with professionalism, this was an enjoyable aspect of the evening.
Front of House staff were also Willetton SHS students, and as we have come to expect in this venue, were simply excellent.
Student lead and with maximum student input and involvement, this short season must provide huge learning opportunities for all students involved, but it is also great quality entertainment and dining for parents, friends, and the general public.
Kimberley Shaw