Chalkface

This community theatre premiere was among the top plays of the year so far. Expertly staged, and with a strong cast, this comedy, set in a primary school staffroom, rang true for many teachers. While very funny and highly satirical, Chalkface also highlighted the many difficulties faced by teachers at this time.

Director Vanessa Jensen’s set had the ring of truth, with fabulous attention to derail, and included a slide out supply cupboard. A ceiling collapse towards the end of the play was expertly staged. Lighting and sound design, by Lars Jensen, was superb, and included simply the best storm scene that I have witnessed.

Michelle Sharp’s costumes were beautifully chosen for character, with great thought, and the execution of Book Week Costumes was excellent - a highlight of the show.

The ensemble cast worked beautifully as a team and created characters that while at times heightened, remained believable. Natalie Burbage, a teacher in real life, played cynical and burnt-out Pat Novitsky to perfection, with depth that was tangible. Louise Fishwick was a delight as Early Childhood Educator Denise, both vague and sweet. Cameron Leese had wonderful bluster as clueless dictator come Principal Douglas Housten.

Christopher Hill was convincing as Steve Budge, paranoid about being stalked. Maree Steel played a very recognizable School Officer Cheryl Finch, highly protective of the coloured paper, while Sophie Harvey Lissienko made an outstanding community theatre debut as fresh-faced an ultra-keen graduate, Anna Park.

A show that resonated with many, it also included lots of theatrical surprises. One to watch come awards season, Chalkface was a great little piece of theatre.

Kimberley Shaw