Rotto Boys

Rotto Boys is a locally written play making its locally written debut. Set on Perth’s popular Rottnest Island, it follows a group of men holding their annual reunion weekend - friends from a university cricket team. It features some great ensemble work and well-crafted performances.

I attended a Sunday matinee, which to my surprise was only half full. I imagine that this play fails to appeal to theatre “super bookers”, those women aged fifty plus who tend to organize group bookings or encourage their whole family to go to the theatre. I can hear Nicole saying, “I can listen to my husband talk about cricket at home.”

Luckily the play is much more than men talking about cricket, as banter and comedy (there are a few really good laughs) lead to deep and meaningful conversation and the baring of some very raw emotions - beautifully portrayed.

Jason Blaine is convincing as Freud; a psychologist who hates card games and brings along conversation starting game “Deep Speak” - which opens some old wounds.

Steve Hounsome delivers an excellent performance as Junior, the youngest in the group, a former star cricketer going through a rough patch in his life. His conflict with Murray Jackson’s Cocker is particularly impressive. Lovely to see Murray back on stage, in his element as an irreverent, outspoken bloke with a chip on his shoulder. 

Andrew Watson completes the cast as Davis, leader-of-sorts in the group. One of my favourite roles of Andrew’s and a great balance for the rest of the cast.

Running a little longer than the playwright’s suggested 100 minutes, the pace at times could be a little more slick, but this is a small quibble in a well-acted play.

The set, designed by director Phil Bedworth, is outstanding, expertly built and beautifully finished and furnished, with a gorgeous beach panorama visible through window and door, painted by Althea Gordon. Intelligent lighting from John Woolrych clearly shows the passing of time over the weekend. 

This is a great show for blokes but will be enjoyed by everyone - and you don’t need to be a fan of cricket (or Rottnest Island) to enjoy the production.

Kimberley Shaw