Carol

Black Swan State Theatre Company’s Carol is, at its heart, a tender and moving story of homelessness and resilience - especially at Christmas. This tender tale is wrapped up in some very gaudy, albeit expensive wrapping. leaving a show that grows on its audience, despite its strangeness.

Bruce McGiven’s set, which he describes as “smashed together”, is an odd blend of class and kitsch, with the stage beautifully framed, a succession of Christmas curtains, a lovely Christmas tree, and an eye catching “Christmas Wrap” floor, a setting that might be the home for a television Seasonal Special or Carols by Candlelight. 

Things begin to feel “unusual” in the first few minutes when we find Santa Claus dangling awkwardly from the ceiling. Played laconically with broad Australian accent by Mark Storen, Santa works the audience well, and improvises with flair, although he is a little difficult to understand at times. Santa Claus is part narrator and part character, as he eventually launches into our story proper.

Our tale follows Carol, born on Christmas Day, and we see her life from one Christmas Day to the next. Due to circumstances beyond her control, a recently widowed Carol ends up living in her van (the van is almost a character in itself), as Christmas approaches. A bitter-sweet play that draws attention to the fact that women over 55 are the fastest growing group of people without secure housing, Carol, the play, is strongest when we are focused on the plight of the title character.

The central role is played with depth and charm by Sally-Anne Upton, who is well supported by Bruce Denny, Isaac Damon and Ruby Henaway, all playing multiple characters with conviction, from her family to members of her grief support group.

Live music is provided throughout by Musical Director Jackson Harper-Griggs, with percussion assistance from Isaac Damon between multiple roles.

Lighting has a holiday flair, due to a festive and fresh design by Lucy Birkinshaw.

Funny, familiar and a little bit bogan, this is a show that you can’t help but like, despite its rough edges. This makes its message even more poignant. Well worth a look, especially if you’re not yet in the holiday mood.

Kimberley Shaw

Photographer: Daniel J. Grant