The Laramie Project

Curtin University Theatre Arts present this well-known verbatim theatre piece, telling of the town of Laramie and the murder of young, gay man Matthew Shepard, in a beautifully structured ensemble production directed by Adam Mitchell in the Hayman Theatre.

Stephen Carr gives us a universal set that evokes rural Wyoming, and thoughtful lighting from Chloe Palliser helps us move from fields, to a university theatre, offices, bars, homes and a courtroom, as we meet the residents of Laramie. Jonathan Hoey provides a strong sound design, with the underscoring towards the end of the show especially powerful. 

The ensemble of eleven play a multitude of characters including members of Tectonic Theatre Project, residents of Laramie and the perpetrators of the crime. Aided only by simple costume additions (from a lovely straight-forward design by Poppy Lindsell and Angelle Hart), characters are differentiated by clever acting choices, voices and mannerisms. There are so many moving and striking moments in this production including Alex Hutchings’ incredibly moving statement as Dennis Shepard, Elizabeth Offer’s matter-of-fact revelations of discrimination as lesbian professor Catherine Connolly, Angus Price’s layered retelling of Aaron Kreifels’ discovery of the fatally wounded Matthew, Georgia Condon’s excellent portrayal of police officer Reggie Flute, with Tiahna McBride’s lovely characterisation of her mother Marge. Crystal Nguyen, strong throughout, was outstanding as the dynamic Romaine Patterson, Hetty Lobegeiger touched hearts with Rulon Stacey’s address to the media, Adam Naylor added much needed light as Matt Galloway, Oliver Charlton showed a strong journey as Jebadiah Shultz, with Travis Koch and Samuel Ireland creating a myriad of distinct and believable characters.

The teamwork in this show is impressive and their ability to really listen as characters is second-to-none.

Over twenty years after its first performance, and half a world away from where it is set, The Laramie Project remains an important play, with much to say. Curtin’s production shows a great understanding of the text and is very moving and beautiful. Well worth a look.

Kimberley Shaw

Photographer: Leigh Brennan