Chameleon

2011 Adelaide Fringe Festival; Oleanna by David Mamet review

2011-03-05T20:57:00.000+10:30

David Mamet's play Oleanna returns to the Adelaide Fringe Festival for a limited season, starring Guy Masterson and Joanne Hartstone. Image: C.I.T.

Power Play by Linh

Playwright David Mamet's powerful and thought-provoking drama Oleanna returns to the Adelaide Fringe Festival after its sell-out season in 2009. Director, writer, actor Guy Masterson's Centre for International Theatre (C.I.T) presents four shows only this year and Adelaide actress Joanne Hartstone co-stars with Masterson in this gripping and critically acclaimed masterpiece concerning gender politics, exploitation and freedom of expression. Carol is a struggling and frustrated university student who seeks assistance from her unconventional Professor and he invites her into his office to discuss her assignment. Her Professor is on the brink of tenure and their sessions are constantly interrupted by phone calls from his wife. Beginning with opposing ideas and differences of opinions, their meeting results in very subtle touching and physical embracing from her Professor.

Oleanna presents both sides of the arguments regarding a young woman's right to feel, think and act freely without being under the patriarchal power of a male, whereas the Professor feels he is being unfairly implicated as a "rapist" and allegedly abused his power and position to sexually exploit her. The issues are somewhat context-driven and each side of the argument is presented through the strong characterisation and solid performances from Joanne Hartstone as Carol and Guy Masterson's portrayal of the Professor. The minimalist setting of the play keeps the focus on the characters' interaction and is brilliantly staged to keep the audience engaged through the use of ambiguity in dialogue and explosive emotionally-charged outbursts from both characters.

Hartstone is superb as the seemingly naive yet strong-willed student Carol with an enquiring mind whose eagerness to learn, lands her in an epic power struggle with her Professor. Interestingly, Carol's clothing reflects her growing confidence and defiance against her Professor, starting off with a singlet top and skirt in the First Act and by the Third Act, she is in pants and cardigan/jacket as though transgressing from a feminine appearance to a masculine countenance. Guy Masterson is equally powerful as the Professor and his character straddles between adhering to the professional conduct as an educator and being a friend to his student.

Oleanna demonstrates how easily words and actions can be misconstrued and misunderstood. Throughout the play, the phrase "I don't understand" is repeated by both characters at various stages, perhaps to reveal a disconnect between them, or as a subconscious rejection of the other's viewpoint and an attempt to impose their own views upon the other as a form of power or influence. This is one of Mamet's most controversial and divisive plays and definitely one of his best.

DRAMATIC DIVIDE: Guy Masterson and Joanne Hartstone star in David Mamet's play Oleanna at the 2011 Adelaide Fringe Festival. Image: C.I.T.

Follow Guy Masterson's C.I.T. Theatre Tours International on Twitter:
@TheatreToursInt

Visit Guy Masterson's C.I.T websites:
Theatre Tours International Official Page

Centre for International Theatre Official Page

WHO: Oleanna by David Mamet

WHAT: Theatre, Drama play

WHERE: Higher Ground (Main Theatre), 9 Light Square, Adelaide

WHEN:
All shows begin at 2:30pm.
6, 12 and 13 March

PRICE: (no concession):
All tickets $23.00

RUNNING TIME: 2 hours including two (15 minutes and 5 minutes) intervals

For Fringe Tickets:

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2011 Adelaide Fringe Festival review; Peter Helliar’s World of Balls (preview)

2011-02-22T22:17:00.002+10:30

Peter Helliar's World of Balls bounces into the 2011 Adelaide Fringe Festival. Image: Roger Cummins.

Ballsy Banter by Linh

Peter Helliar’s comedy show at last year’s Adelaide Fringe Festival, The Dreamboat Tour, dealt with personal topics and family matters. This year, Helliar returns with more things that stir up passion, frustration, and laughter – sport. It would be familiar territory for Helliar, as he recently completed a season of the sports-based comedy television quiz show The Trophy Room for ABC1, which received strong support from viewers. Peter Helliar’s World of Balls allows him to combine two of his loves in life, sport and comedy. Australians love their sport and Peter Helliar’s World of Balls is guaranteed to attract attention, even without the help of Helliar’s alter-ego Bryan ‘Strauchanie’ Strauchan.

Everything about Peter Helliar’s World of Balls is sporty, from the music playing while the audience streams into the venue (Pat Benatar’s All Fired Up and Chariots of Fire by Vangelis), to Helliar’s energetic and funny delivery of sports stars and their follies. Helliar kicks goals from start to finish in this show and keeps the audience enthralled with hilarious observations of past and present sporting scandals, controversies, triumphs and tragedies. There is no need to be an armchair expert on sport as Helliar provides quick explanations behind the stories and finds the humour embedded in the seriousness of some of the incidents. From gender and racial issues to politics, Helliar covers the extent of how sport can just as easily divide a nation as it can unite its people.

Helliar muses about the sporting dreams and devastation of Australian champions such as hurdler Sally Pearson, super-swimmer Geoff Huegill, rugby league’s John Hopoate, and freestyle skier Jacqui Cooper. Not all the sports mentioned in Helliar’s comedy show involves balls on the court/field/stadium or between men’s legs. Sometimes the balls represent an athlete’s courage/battle against the odds (he/she’s got balls), or figuratively represents a fantastic and exciting experience (we had a ball). Whichever way it’s interpreted, there is no doubt Peter Helliar’s World of Balls will leave you in stitches, particularly as he amusingly evokes the passion shared among many around the world who love their sport. Helliar carries the entire hour of stand up comedy with his usual panache and comedic creativity that clearly resonates with the audience, making Peter Helliar’s World of Balls a must-see.

Follow Peter Helliar on Twitter:
@pjhelliar

Be Peter Helliar’s fan/friend on Facebook:
Peter Helliar Official Page

WHO: Peter Helliar’s World of Balls

WHAT: Stand up comedy performance, audience interaction

WHERE: The Umbrella Revolution in the Garden of Unearthly Delights

WHEN: Previews have concluded.
All shows begin at 8:15pm.

PRICE: Ticket prices vary according to dates (no concession):
$32: 22,23, 24 and 27 February
$35: 25 and 26 February

RUNNING TIME: 1 hour

Buy Fringe Tickets:

Adelaide Fringe Ticketing

2011 Adelaide Fringe Festival review; Ali McGregor-Something Old, Something New

2011-02-22T20:21:00.003+10:30

Ali McGregor brings her show Something Old, Something New to the Adelaide Fringe Festival. Image: www.alimcgregor.com

Something Scintillating by Linh

Operatic soprano, cabaret/jazz/burlesque performer Ali McGregor is a frequent visitor to Adelaide, bringing her shows to the Adelaide Cabaret and Fringe Festivals in the past. After her critically-acclaimed show Jazz Cigarettes, Ali McGregor returns to Adelaide with her latest concoction of Something Old, Something New. McGregor could only squeeze in a weekend of two matinee performances due to her hectic schedule being a mum to her baby girl and currently is in the middle of rehearsals for the operetta The Merry Widow.

In McGregor’s sold-out show Jazz Cigarettes she was smoking hot, but in Something Old, Something New she is scintillating. Her show brings together some popular jazz standards with mash-ups of contemporary pop songs and blues. Between songs, Ali would engage with the audience in her current frustrations about being unprepared for the unusual wet weather in Adelaide, her love of blues singers such as Nina Simone, Billie Holiday, Dinah Washington and her childhood interpretations of songs which now, as an adult, still has a long-lasting effect on her.

McGregor’s opening number The Man I Love, is delivered with titillating sensuousness and could be a heartfelt dedication to her husband and comedian/presenter Adam Hills (who is stuck inside a hotel room nursing a dreadful cold), while her next song is a jazzed-up homage to Soft Cell’s hit Tainted Love. McGregor dedicated Little Girl Blues by Nina Simone, to her little girl, delivering the song with soothingly smooth vocals and tenderness.

Other highlights of her show include a Santana-inspired rendition of Madonna’s single La Isla Bonita; a wildly outrageous and sexed-up rendition of Britney Spears’ Oops I Did It Again; I Was Made For Loving You by Kiss gets the blues treatment, and a fantastic mash-up combining Fly Me To The Moon with Gloria Gaynor’s I Will Survive.

McGregor was superbly supported by a trio of masterful musicians, with Matthew Carey on the piano, lovely Alana Dawes keeping the harmonies flowing on the double bass and Barnabas Smith held the rhythm and beats on percussion/drums. Although this was a matinee show, there were still some younger audience members who enjoyed most of the eclectic range of songs. Something Old, Something New is another showcase for the wonderful vocals of the talented and gorgeous Ali McGregor who will soon be completing her album Jazz Cigarettes in the next few months.

The season for Something Old, Something New has concluded.

Visit Ali Mcgregor’s website:
Ali McGregor

Follow Ali McGregor on Twitter:
@thealimcgregor

Be Ali McGregor’s fan/friend on Facebook:
Ali McGregor on Facebook

2011 Adelaide Fringe Festival review; Emma Horwood – Songs of Middle-Earth

2011-02-20T02:26:00.002+10:30

Middle-Earth Melodies by Linh

Emma Horwood performs Songs Of Middle-Earth at the 2011 Adelaide Fringe Festival. Image: emmahorwood.com.au

Local soprano and harpist Emma Horwood’s Songs of Middle-Earth is one of two shows inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien’s book The Lord Of The Rings being performed at this year’s Adelaide Fringe Festival. The other is the theatre comedy One Man Lord Of The Rings starring Charles Ross (One Man Star Wars Trilogy).

In Horwood’s show, she seamlessly blends her singing with harp and short readings from specific chapters in Tolkien’s The Lord Of The Rings and sets her songs to the poetry in Tolkien’s book. Horwood selects poems in the order they appear in The Fellowship of The Ring, The Two Towers and The Return Of The King, and links each reading with a song.
With the exception of the first and last songs in the programme, all the words in the songs are from Tolkien’s book. Founder and director of The Adelaide Chamber Singers,Carl Crossin, arranged and set the music for the poem Elbereth. The other songs are composed by Australians Helen Cartridge, Judith Clingan and Andrew Close, with music by English composers Donald Swann and Stephen Oliver. Horwood transcribed Oliver’s music and arranged any music not written for the harp to create an aural journey, enabling the audience to experience the wonders in Tolkien’s fantasy world of Middle-Earth.

Emma Horwood sings and plays the harp during her show Songs Of Middle-Earth at the 2011 Adelaide Fringe Festival. Image: Linh Chameleon.

Horwood’s dark forest green dress represents the luscious greenery and beauty of the hills, dales and forests depicted in Tolkien’s book and the earthiness of the many characters from hobbits to elves. Her harp and music stand are entwined with green vines to create the sight and sounds of being in a forest glade where Tolkien’s elves would sing, dance, eat and drink in merriment.

Horwood holds the audience in silent hypnotic awe with her angelic voice and harp-playing in the intimate Radford Auditorium. The music seems to transport the listener to the magical world of Tolkien’s fictional Middle-Earth as inhabited by characters that were depicted in director Peter Jackson’s film adaptations of The Lord of The Rings. Songs Of Middle-Earth is for fans of Tolkien’s books as well as those who love classical music, and for anyone who enjoys the talents of a sublime performer such as Emma Horwood.

Emma Horwood reads passages from J. R. R. Tolkien's The Lord Of The Rings during her show Songs Of Middle-Earth at the 2011 Adelaide Fringe Festival. Image: Linh Chameleon.

Visit Emma Horwood's website:
Emma Horwood: Harpist and Soprano

WHO: Emma Horwood- Songs Of Middle-Earth

WHAT: Solo performance, classical singing, harp playing, book reading

WHERE: Radford Auditorium at the Art Gallery of South Australia

WHEN: 3pm show – 20 February
7pm show – 27 February

PRICE: Adults - $22
Concession - $18

RUNNING TIME: 1 hour and 15 minutes

Buy Fringe Tickets:
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2011 Adelaide Fringe Festival review; Felicity Ward – Honestly (preview)

2011-02-16T15:01:00.004+10:30

Hilariously Honest by Linh

Felicity Ward opens up and bares her soul in her new comedy show Honestly. Image: laughingstock.com.au

You may have been to Felicity Ward’s (The Ronnie Johns Half Hour, Good News Week) previous shows like Ugly As A Child or Felicity Ward Reads From The Book Of Moron, but in her latest comedy show, Honestly, Ward opens up her personal treasure chest of emotions and insecurities for laughs. Honestly, as her show title, possibly sums up her approach to life, love and laughter.
Ward’s show is a blend of stand-up comedy, characterisations, impersonations, music, singing and audience participation. Metaphorically stripping herself of all inhibitions, Ward shows she has all the self-confidence and comic ability to deliver laughs with plenty of flair and great comic timing. No story is too private to share and no-one is safe from her eagle eyes scanning the audience during her show.

Honestly is riotous fun and is as entertaining for the audience as it is cathartic for Ward about her personal moments of humiliation and rejection by a teenage crush, her skin-peeling experience, some handy advice from her family members, and the reason behind her skinny figure.
The highlights are when Ward tackles technology in creative and engaging ways with the audience. Expect some form of participation (a volunteer from the audience is required) in her anti-synthesised vocals segment in a backlash against the weird synthesised voice pioneered by Cher in her hit song Believe. The use of an iTunes app plus crazy lyrics by Ward as she duets with a willing participant is a fabulous spectacle.

Mostly during her show Honestly, we discover why Ward is the way she is and how she has come to accept her flaws and weaknesses. Honesty is the best policy and Ward shows it’s also a sure-fire method to generate laughter and not to take yourself too seriously. Your adventures at this year’s Adelaide Fringe Festival would be incomplete unless you include Felicity Ward’s Honestly on your itinerary.

Follow Felicity Ward on Twitter:
@felicityward

Be Felicity Ward’s fan/friend on Facebook:
Felicity Ward on Facebook

Buy Fringe Tickets:
Adelaide Fringe Ticketing

WHO: Felicity Ward - Honestly

WHAT: Comedy, music, interactive segments/audience participation

WHERE: Le Cascadeur in the Garden of Unearthly Delights

WHEN: All shows start at 7:30pm
Previews – 16, 17 February
Cheap Tuesdays: 22 February and 1, 8 March
Regular price shows: 16, 17, 19, 20, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27 February and 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 March

PRICE: Cheap Tuesdays – All Shows $20
Regular Prices - Adults: $25
Concession: $20

RUNNING TIME: 1 hour

2011 Adelaide Fringe Festival; Sammy J and Randy in ‘Bin Night’ (preview)

2011-02-14T22:57:00.005+10:30

Guarding Garbage By Linh

Sammy J and Randy present their latest comedy musical Bin Night at the 2011 Adelaide Fringe Festival. Image: laughingstock.com.au

Comedian, writer, musician Sammy J and his puppet partner Randy (with special appearances by puppeteer Heath McIvor) return to Adelaide to bring an extravaganza of original songs, clever quips and a story filled with intrigue, shocks and laughs in Bin Night.
Bin Night is a comedy musical where Sammy and Randy suspect someone has been dumping rubbish into their wheelie bin and they both hold an all night stake-out to catch the culprits they call bin bandits. Suspects include the little granny who lives down the street, the loner and Scientologist Mr Vincent and a possum. They have sophisticated technology (walkie talkies) to communicate with each other and even a hi-tech security system (very temperamental) to protect their household goods, but their surveillance plans go awry when Sammy and Randy are accidentally locked outside their house. While Sammy is put on hold by the security company, we discover some truths and lies they each keep from each other. It eventually becomes apparent that perhaps Sammy and Randy are hiding things from each other by dumping it in the bin. Randy’s love and yearning for a Peruvian lady, Sammy J’s passion for Belinda Carlisle and his suspicion of possums and the identity of the garbage dumper are revealed in spectacular fashion.

Sammy and Randy complement each other superbly and work together effectively as they smoothly weave in running jokes, visual and audio gags, and excellent segues from one incident to the next, along with Belinda Carlisle references, and Father Time and his life juice. They are quick to recover from verbal blunders, prop problems and technical failures using funny adlibs and improvisation. Preview shows can sometimes bring out the worst in some, but this comedy duo are at their funniest when things go wrong. There are special appearances from Heath McIvor in many different guises and the Creepy Shovel makes a cameo appearance.

Bin Night consists of a well-structured narrative with witty, fast-paced dialogue peppered with fun wordplay and even a segment of tongue-twisting exchanges between Sammy and Randy. Sammy even shows off some culinary skills that evoke laughter as the food flies off the plate and into the audience. Deliberate or not, it was a classy theatrical moment. The songs are not all random, but do relate to the characters’ situations and the plot, and Sammy and Randy’s duets are always humourous and brilliant.
Bin Night is another must-see show directed by Spicks And Specks team captain Alan Brough, and is worth more than one attendance.

Be Sammy J's fan/friend on Facebook:
Sammy J

Be Randy's fan/friend on Facebook:
Randy

WHO: Sammy J and Randy in Bin Night

WHAT: Puppetry, comedy, music, theatre

WHERE: Le Cascadeur in the Garden of Unearthly Delights

WHEN: All shows start at 8:45pm

Preview – (Cheap Tuesdays) 15 February
Cheap Tuesdays: 22 February and 1, 8 March
Regular price shows: 16, 17, 19, 20, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27 February and 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 March

PRICE: Cheap Tuesdays – All Shows $20
Regular Prices - Adults: $25
Concession: $20

RUNNING TIME: 1 hour

Buy Fringe Tickets:
Adelaide Fringe Ticketing

2011 Adelaide Fringe Festival review; The Amazing Drumming Monkeys-Love The Planet (preview)

2011-02-13T22:18:00.012+10:30

Puppet Palace at the Garden of Unearthly Delights. Image: Linh Chameleon.

Eco-friendly Entertainment by Linh

The Amazing Drumming Monkeys are a family favourite and have a family-friendly theme for every show. This year, the monkeys named Bongo (white monkey) and Congo (black monkey) take an environmental theme and incorporate it into their show through the stage setting and design, the fun tricks and interactive songs and dancing.

Tree planting, rainwater tanks, recycling and solar energy are part of the show’s environmentally friendly theme but the real appeal comes from the drumming monkeys’ enthusiasm and excitement about helping Mother Nature and fighting climate change.
One particular trick (catapulting a frog into a little pond) was indeed very tricky to perform and a mother/audience member named Michelle was happy to help re-load the frog several times. Bongo jokingly declared the same trick took 23 attempts in a show performed in Western Australia. Michelle again came to the rescue for Bongo and Congo in another trick involving a parachute. It’s moments such as these that make the show much more entertaining and the improvisations and adlibs from the monkeys are wonderfully delivered to keep the children interested and the adults in suspense.

DRUMMING DUO: Congo and Bongo drum up support for the environment in their show The Amazing Drumming Monkeys - Love The Planet at the 2011 Adelaide Fringe Festival. Image: Linh Chameleon.

The audience were sweating in the hot tent of the Puppet Palace, but Bongo and Congo’s drumming, singing and playful banter were enough to make everyone forget about the heat and enjoy themselves. However, perhaps some electric fans or air-conditioning would make some of the children less restless and fidgety between the singing, dancing and clapping segments.
The Amazing Drumming Monkeys - Love The Planet is an excellent show that’s affordable and entertaining for families and for anyone who loves to get in on the action and be part of the fun.

TRICKY TASK: Congo and Bongo prepare for the next trick in their show The Amazing Drumming Monkeys - Love The Planet at the 2011 Adelaide Fringe Festival. Image: Linh Chameleon.

WHO: The Amazing Drumming Monkeys-Love The Planet

WHAT: Puppetry, comedy, interactive song and dance

WHERE: The Puppet Palace at the Garden of Unearthly Delights

WHEN: Previews have concluded.
1pm shows: 19,26,27 February and 5,6 March.
4pm shows: 19 February and 5, 6 March.
6pm shows: 22,23,24,25,26,27 February and 5,6 March.

PRICE: Adults: $12
Concession: $10

RUNNING TIME: 30 minutes.

Buy Fringe Tickets:
Adelaide Fringe Ticketing

2011 Adelaide Fringe Festival; Comedy Orphans Live At The Orphanage (charity show)

2011-02-13T18:24:00.003+10:30

Cast of The Comedy Orphans Live At The Orphanage: (front row) Fletcher Jones (Smart Casual), Felicity Ward, Roger David (Smart Casual), (back row)Heath Franklin (Chopper Read), David Quirk, Sammy J and Randy the puppet with Heath McIvor. Image: laughingstock.com.au

Charitable Chuckles by Linh

What’s your taste in comedy? In the first week of previews for the 2011 Adelaide Fringe Festival, not only does new comedy agency Buxstock serve up some palatable performers, but money raised from the show goes to an orphanage in Thailand. While you chortle or guffaw at the smorgasbord of Australian comedians, orphaned children in Thailand get a bit more of life’s necessities such as food and clothing.
The Comedy Orphans Live At The Orphanage is to provide performers an opportunity to showcase some of their work in their upcoming shows.

The line-up of performers is impressive and include some favourites from previous Fringe appearances such as Felicity Ward, Heath Franklin’s Chooper and Sammy J and puppet-pal Randy. However, these comedy orphans do more than pick-pocketing you for charity; there is funny bone tickling, rib-cage cracking and side-splitting observational jokes. You’ll laugh till it hurts, but the unconventional comedy with some fruity language may not suit everyone’s taste.

Opening the show are musician/writer and comedian Sammy J and his purple puppet partner Randy who show off in a showdown of speedy quips and quirks from their upcoming show Bin Night. The two gel well and complement each other’s personalities without overshadowing the other.

Comedian David Quirk is the nice-guy of comedy (not as nice as Adam Hills though) with a darker side who muses about Thin Lizzie’s hit song Jailbreak, ponders the disadvantages of missing limbs and draws similarities between relationships and bushfire warnings. Quirk is a charmer whose comedy leaves you still laughing at the previous joke while he begins the next.

Well-known as the inquisitive little girl with ponytails from The Ronnie Johns Half Hour comedy show, Felicity Ward returns to Adelaide with a small sample from her new show Honestly. Throughout her fifteen minutes, Ward sometimes has the audience too entranced to even clap or speak (“I can’t hear a nod or a smile” she would say), but when finally let loose from her enchantment, the audience would let the laughter out. Ward incorporates, singing, music, audience participation and encounters with junkies of all kinds. Definitely a show to catch at this year’s Fringe Festival.

The boys from Smart Casual are also back in Adelaide for the Fringe after their sell-out show Same Mother, Different Fathers in 2010. They are smart men in casual wear or maybe casual men in smart wear, but their comedy is a blend of both – smart jokes delivered in a casual manner or vice versa. Fletcher Jones (with the beard) and Roger David (with the guitar) perform the popular ‘Hawk Song’, and some pieces from their new show The Story of Captain Entrée. They are a very funny and affable duo with the Aussie laconic humour that continues to win over audiences.

Writer/producer/comedian Heath Franklin has a cast of comedic characters in his repertoire but his most popular is the impersonation of controversial criminal Mark ‘Chopper’ Read. Chopper is back with more things that p*** him off and gives him the s***s, and is funnier when he picks on an unsuspecting audience member. He’ll be in Adelaide for his latest offering called Chopper’s Big F***en Late Night Show.
The performance was one night only and was 35 minutes late (scheduled to start at 11.15pm), but the wait was worth it as the comedy orphans did not disappoint.

2011 Adelaide Fringe Festival

2011-02-13T11:56:00.003+10:30

Fringe Frivolities by Linh

The 2011 Adelaide Fringe Festival officially opens on Friday 18 February following an exciting and spectacular Fringe Opening Night Parade through the city streets. However, previews of various shows begin this week and continue next week, with some favourites, some regulars and some new performers testing the discerning taste of audiences.

The Garden of Unearthly Delights is already open for business with food and drink stalls aplenty, the side shows are revved up and the eclectic array of talent performing are streaming through the gates and all over the Garden, into venues such as the Spiegeltent, the Umbrella Revolution and Le Cascadeur.
Get along early to the Garden and stay late into the night while the weather is cool and comfortable for some Fringe-ing.

2010 Adelaide Cabaret Festival – Fabulous Food

2010-06-29T21:16:00.010+09:30

Cabaret Cuisine by Linh

The Adelaide Cabaret Festival treats all your senses, from the sights and sounds of the wonderful artists during performances, to the taste, smell and feel of the food stalls. Throughout the festival, crowds of hungry cabaret-lovers dined on local fare including something enchanting. For the first time, Churroz, the enchanting Spanish doughnut, made an appearance at the Cabaret Festival and has won over some fans with a sweet-tooth for sugary-chocolate-caramel dough sticks.

Image: Linh

Image: Linh

Chocolate-caramel Churros. Image: Linh

I bought a tub of Tempting Churros – there were three in a serve, topped with chocolate sauce and drizzled with caramel sauce, served hot. The churros tasted better than the ones I ate during my trip to Melbourne.

Image: Linh

Squid sensations. Image: Linh

For seafood lovers, Squid Inc., provides the juiciest squids and calamari rings flavoured with lemon pepper, garlic, salt and pepper. The food comes in a cardboard cone, with a choice of sauces including tartare, tomato, barbecue and chilli as extra flavour or for dipping. I poured mine onto a plate for easy access and quick consumption.

Go 'Beyond India' for the best curries. Image: Linh

On my final night of the Cabaret Festival, I could not resist some Indian delights, so I headed for Beyond India. The menu consisted of some favourite Indian fare, both meat and vegetarian. I had the Mixed Vegetable Korma, with white steamed rice and large papadum. The delicious meal tasted spicy, tangy and savoury all at once and was very filling.

Indian indulgence. Image: Linh

The seating at the dining area varied from plastic round tables for up to four people, to a cosy and intimate lounge setting with a fire stand to keep the winter chills away. I snared a spot on one of the soft, comfortable, red and gold-striped seats near the coffee table. Hopefully, the lounge setting will return for the next Cabaret festival, as it proved a popular meeting spot for cabaret audiences having post-show drinks and interval snacks between shows.

Comfortable cabaret couches. Image: Linh

The 2010 Adelaide Cabaret Festival – Poster Artwork

2010-06-26T21:46:00.004+09:30

Fifty Foot Female by Linh

Throughout mythology, literature and films there have been numerous gendered monsters, from the masculine monsters like Dracula and King Kong to the fearsome females such as Medusa and the Wicked Witch of the West (from The Wizard of Oz). Another thought would be that monsters do not have genders but exhibit various characteristics stereotypical of either male or female.

It is with some curiosity that the 10th Adelaide Cabaret Festival poster features Mitzi in a parody of the character Nancy from the film Attack of the Fifty Foot Woman. The poster of the original 1958 film shows Nancy holding a car which may signify an overpowering or threat to male supremacy, but the Adelaide Cabaret Festival is more explicit with an actual man being held. A clever alteration to the artwork is the inclusion of the Adelaide Festival Centre, over which Mitzi stands in all her glory.

The main difference could be the message conveyed between the two posters. In the film poster for Attack of the Fifty Foot Woman, Nancy looks like she is on an angry rampage in the heart of the city, and according to the film’s story line, Nancy is seeking revenge on her cheating husband and the authorities (all male) who have falsely claimed she is mentally unstable.

The 2010 Adelaide Cabaret Festival poster shows Mitzi as more of a gigantic spectacle than a threat, who is hard to ignore and pleasing to the eye. This could reflect the Adelaide Cabaret Festival’s image as a fantastic event that must not be missed and is the biggest thing in town.

The 2010 Adelaide Cabaret Festival

2010-06-26T21:26:00.003+09:30

Fab Cab Fest by Linh

This year marks ten years of fabulous cabaret and musical theatre fun and entertainment for the Festive State (South Australia). Artistic Director of the Adelaide Cabaret Festival, David Campbell has again delivered the musical goods to attract some of the best and brightest talents to Adelaide. The gorgeous Natalie Cole, effervescent Caroline O’Connor, superb tenor David Hobson and zany comic pianist Mark Nadler are among the 250 artists, playing over 120 performances across 16 days.

All performers come from a range of musical backgrounds and experiences, yet they are all equally exciting and excellent. This year there are more local talent, after some criticism about last year’s internationally-renowned stars edging out local musicians.
Of course, David Campbell cannot take all the credit for organising the world’s biggest cabaret event, with hundreds of volunteers and Festival Centre staff putting in the long hours to make the 10th Adelaide Cabaret Festival the best yet.

2010 Tasting Australia; Feast For The Senses in Adelaide, Sunday 2 May (Part Two)

2010-05-02T19:05:00.014+09:30

The coveted Pasta Challenge Trophy. Image:Linh.

One of the events I attended at the 2010 Tasting Australia: Feast For The Senses, was the San Remo Pasta Challenge Celebrity Cook-Off hosted by the two Michaels – television personalities, Michael Angelakis and Michael Keelan from Channel Nine’s Out of the Blue programme.

The judges were Adelaide’s own chef extraordinaire Dorinda Hafner, Adam Swanson, who is the Executive Chef of Zucca Greek Mezze in Holdfast Shores and first-time international visitor, Rosemary Shrager, presenter of the hit UK television series Ladette to Lady and Rosemary Shrager's School for Cooks.
The brave contenders for the San Remo Pasta Celebrity Cook-off were 891 ABC Adelaide radio personality Carole Whitelock, Netball star of the Adelaide Thunderbirds Natalie von Bertouch, The Advertiser Newspaper’s Antimo Ianella and Melissa Rowland, also from the Thunderbirds.

Team One are Antimo Ianella and Melissa Rowland. Image:Linh.

Team Two are Natalie von Bertouch and Carole Whitelock. Image:Linh.

A large screen erected along the riverbank, displayed all the action and close-ups of the food, revealing the strengths and weaknesses of the celebrity cooks as they battled it out for culinary supremacy.
The hosts, Michael Angelakis and Michael Keelan, exchanged playful banter as they weaved in, out and around the challengers who concentrated hard and worked fast to finish their pasta dishes. The crowds watched, chatted and cheered on the cooks as the judges offered them some handy advice.

As Rosemary Shrager counted down the final seconds, the cooks scrambled to plate-up their pasta dishes for the judges to taste. I was barracking for Ant and Mel, but I noticed their dish didn’t look as delectable as Carole and Natalie’s pasta dish. Being the fickle type, I quickly changed my preferences to Carole and Natalie.
The judges, Dorinda, Adam and Rosemary, were in consensus that both teams failed to add enough seasoning to their pasta dishes to enhance flavour. Dorinda gave a valuable tip on seasoning the meat in advance before cooking. After much deliberation, the judges came to their decision.

The judges Dorinda Hafner, Adam Swanson and Rosemary Shrager dish up the pasta for the taste test. Image:Linh.

Rosemary Shrager gives Natalie von Bertouch and Carole Whitelock her assessment on their pasta dish. Image:Linh.

Dorinda Hafner gives Antimo Ianella and Melissa a few comments on their pasta dish. Image:Linh.

The winners were…..
Carole Whitelock and Natalie von Bertouch.
Carole and Natalie each received a fabulous Pasta Challenge trophy, before Antimo and Melissa were presented with cool Pasta Makers.

Winners Announcement. Video:chameleonfun.

The San Remo Pasta Challenge Celebrity Cook-Off was an exciting and fun event for all the family. I will definitely return next time to see who is daring enough to take on the next Pasta Challenge and who the judges will be to crown the next pasta dish victors.

2010 Tasting Australia runs from 29 April to 6 May at various venues across Australia.

2010 Tasting Australia; Feast For The Senses in Adelaide, Sunday 2 May (Part One)

2010-05-02T18:48:00.011+09:30

For a weekend, Adelaide turned from the City of Churches into the hub of fantastic Australian food and wines. Adelaideans, interstate visitors and tourists flocked to the banks of the River Torrens in Elder Park to indulge in the best food, wines, family entertainment, cooking demonstrations and a celebrity Pasta Cook-Off presented by San Remo.

Celebrity guest chefs, television and radio personalities participated in various culinary challenges as audiences cheered them encouragingly. All of the other events were free, with some sessions requiring registration to attend, as seats are limited.
I was avoiding most of the wine stalls (as I don’t drink alcohol), but hovered like a moth to a candle around the food outlets where delicious aromas wafted in the air while mouth-watering plates of food were served.

My first dish was double Samosas with a garlic naan and mint sauce, an entrée from Harvest of India. The naan bread was light and not too fluffy, with a smooth texture on the palate. The naan did not go soggy when dipped into the mint sauce, and the sauce was not too runny, and it had a delicate minty sweetness.

The Samosas were larger than most served in restaurants, and had more filling. The outer crust was a golden brown colour, crispy and not too dry. The filling (vegetarian) was still hot, tasted and smelt divine.

Forty minutes later, I was lining up for my mains, a Prawn Plate, at the very popular Oysters and Seafood stall. The Prawn Plate consisted of five shelled prawns, potato wedges with Mango Honey and Sweet Chilli sauce. Other choices of sauces included garlic butter or sweet chilli sauce. The prawns were small, but succulently splendid. The wedges were lightly fried and tasted fine, but were superb if dipped into the Mango Honey and Sweet Chilli sauce.

As I ate, I watched the elegant black swans glide gracefully along on the River Torrens, passing onlookers and paddle-boats. Their black feathers gleamed in the sunshine as they dipped their red beaks in and out of the water.

Over an hour later, I made a beeline to Cocolat for my dessert – the most expensive on the menu. The Choc Waffles with Gelati and marshmallows was the most appetising item compared to the myriad of gelati, waffles and hot chocolate drinks. I chose the Ferrero Rocher Gelati to accompany my chocolate waffle and a few large fluffy marshmallows on the side. Final verdict: heavenly and all kinds of awesome.

2010 Tasting Australia runs from 29 April to 6 May at various venues across Australia.

2010 Adelaide Fringe Festival; Peter Helliar's Dreamboat Tour

2010-02-23T06:08:00.007+10:30

Image: Token Artists.

Don’t be fooled by the title of Peter Helliar’s new stand up comedy show. There aren’t any nautical jokes or boating gags, but you can expect plenty of laughs.
Peter Helliar is best known for his ‘supporting’ role on rove. alongside Rove McManus for ten years, and has also worked in radio. He has recently completed writing, producing and starring in a romantic comedy film entitled I Love You Too which screens in Australia in May.

The Dreamboat Tour is Peter Helliar’s most personal show so far, and he has based it mostly on his memorably funnier moments with his family members. He speaks of hilarious, frustrating times such as trying to understand his lovely wife and how his inquisitive and gifted son appears more mature compared to Peter’s child-like nature.

He jokes about being a government supervisor on the lottery draws for Channel Seven, draws laughter from the audience when he uses performance techniques to enact some of his funniest experiences when trying to enjoy some down-time with mates.
During the show, Peter Helliar laments over the difference between a tea towel and a cloth, plugs his upcoming film by involving a few audience members, observes the delights of making, receiving and drinking a “cuppa”.

Peter Helliar’s Dreamboat Tour is a fantastically funny and riotously refreshing show with insights of a family man’s perspective on marriage, child-rearing and finding some time to see the blockbuster 3D film Avatar. It’s a genuinely laugh-out-loud hour of stand-up, theatrics and audience involvement from one of Australia’s best comedians.

Peter Helliar’s Dreamboat Tour runs from 22 – 28 February, in The Spiegeltent at The Garden Of Unearthly Delights.

Adelaide Cabaret Festival 2009

2009-06-06T17:32:00.009+09:30

Last night, the 2009 Adelaide Cabaret Festival began with an impressive line-up of talent from Australia and overseas, showcasing some of their vocal vigour and comedic flair; with funnygirl Julia Morris, impressionist Steven Brinberg as Barbra Streisand and Adelaidean Hugh Sheridan from top rating TV series Packed To The Rafters, on stage to launch the night’s festivities.

The red carpet was rolled out as the celebrities rolled up; including Foxtel presenter Antonia Kidman (younger sister of Oscar winner Nicole Kidman) and comedienne and actress Magda Szubanski. Magda will be appearing in the new Aussie musical film Bran Nue Dae alongside Geoffrey Rush, Ernie Dingo and Australian Idol runner up Jessica Mauboy, which will screen at the Melbourne International Film Festival in August.

The Adelaide Cabaret Festival has undergone a few changes in 2009, and it's all the more exciting for audiences and performers.

Firstly, we say a fond farewell to former Adelaide Cabaret Festival director Julia Holt and welcome new (but local and loved) successor David Campbell – son of Adelaide’s own Jimmy Barnes (of rock band Cold Chisel).

CIAO MEOW: Cabaret Cat image at the 2005 Adelaide Cabaret Festival.
Image: Flickr.

Secondly, we say goodbye to the cool cabaret cats after nine wonderful years (it’s said cats have nine lives?) and introduce a stunning redhead (who bears a remarkable resemblance to Hollywood actress Rita Hayworth) as the new face of the Adelaide Cabaret Festival.

CABARET CHARM: The new face of the Adelaide Cabaret Festival for 2009.
Image: www.adelaidefestivalcentre.com.au

RAVISHING REDHEAD: Actress Rita Hayworth.
Image: http://www.allstarpics.net/pic-gallery/rita-hayworth-pics.htm

It’s sure to be another successful cabaret festival for Adelaide and there’s definitely something for everyone’s musical and comedy taste, including blues, soul, jazz, musical theatre, pop and rock.

WALL·E ; animated family film

2008-09-19T22:53:00.016+09:30

PIXAR'S STARS: WALL·E (voiced by Ben Burtt) and EVE (Elissa Knight) in the film WALL·E.
Image: Walt Disney Pictures, Pixar.

A Robotic Romantic by Linh

WALL•E is the latest animated film from Pixar, bringing together the creative team of animators and producers who were responsible for the animated hit films Finding Nemo and The Incredibles.

Set seven hundred years into the future, WALL•E is simply a love story about a lonely robotic garbologist named WALL•E (Waste Allocation Load Lifter – Earth Class) who has been left on Earth to clean up the rubbish left behind by humans. Everyone has relocated to a giant luxury spaceship called Axiom because Earth can no longer sustain life. When WALL•E meets EVE (who is on a mission to find evidence of life on Earth) he is immediately smitten and attempts to win her love. As EVE is taken to the spaceship Axiom, WALL•E believes she is being kidnapped so he attempts to save her.

Andrew Stanton wrote and directed WALL•E based on the concept, "What if mankind had to leave earth, and somebody forgot to turn off the last robot?"
The team behind WALL•E cleverly projects the art of story telling by combining sophisticated visual techniques with audio effects.

The first half of the film contains minimal dialogue and only consists of mechanical noises from WALL•E and his cockroach friend Hal. When WALL•E finds himself onboard the Axiom, we hear human voices from animated humans who look like giant babies sitting all day in hover chairs connected to hologram screens.

Ben Burtt's audio and sound effects wizardry provides the ‘voice’ of WALL•E and another robot named M•O, amongst others. Burtt effectively uses his original mechanical sound recordings to give WALL•E the anthropomorhic touch of human feelings with each vocal inflection and an endearing quality.

The technology used to create WALL•E, and all the other robots is phenomenal. WALL•E has a curious nature and likes collecting unusual and interesting objects amongst the garbage. He has a VHS copy of the musical Hello Dolly, which taught him to sing, dance and hold hands (his way of expressing love). He is solar powered and has twin hydraulic arm shovels. WALL•E's front opens up to gather and then compress rubbish. He also possesses an inbuilt recorder which he uses to record songs from the musical Hello Dolly. WALL•E's eyes are cameras and between them he has a laser. Some of these technical components are used in other ways throughout the film to project human characteristics.

EVE (Extra-terrestrial Vegetation Evaluator) is voiced by Elissa Knight, and is an advanced probe droid sent to Earth on a scanning mission. EVE is equipped with a laser gun and capable of flight and high speeds. She is determined to complete her task and initially fails to notice her robot Romeo, WALL•E. EVE and WALL•E eventually bond and the more she sees how much WALL•E cares for her, the more she falls for him, ultimately making it her top priority to protect him.

The most adorable and funny little robot is M-O (Microbe-Obliterator). M-O is also a cleaning robot who resides aboard the Axiom. He's programmed to clean items deemed contaminated, and travels around on a single roller equipped with cleaning equipment. M-O befriends WALL•E after he attempts to clean dirt off WALL•E's body.

The only 'real' human who appears in the film is Fred Willlard's character Shelby Forthright, the CEO of Buy N Large, the corporate giant which built WALL•E and the Axiom. Willard gives an impressive and highly animated performance, almost as if he should be a cartoon human like the rest of the people onboard Axiom.

Alien star Sigourney Weaver provides the Computer's voice onboard the Axiom, and is gaining a reputation as the sci-fi siren with her acting credits including Ghost Busters 1 and 2, the Alien movies and the upcoming James Cameron sci-fi thriller Avatar.

Although the stars of the film are the plethora of robots with various functions, the presence of humans gives a gentle reminder of how fragile humanity can be and the importance of caring for the environment. Other underlying issues include consumerism and corporate commercialism.

WALL•E is pure enjoyment for all ages and comes with some food for thought. Few animated films have engaged the imagination and moved the senses as WALL•E, making it exceptional•e extraordinar•e.

THE FINAL FUN-TIER: WALL·E travels into space in the film WALL·E.
Image: Walt Disney Pictures, Pixar.

Mamma Mia! The Movie; musical comedy film review

2008-07-11T12:49:00.006+09:30

TRIPLE THREAT: Rosie (Julie Walters), Donna (Meryl Streep) and Tanya (Christine Baranski) reminisce about the days of young love on the eve of Sophie's wedding in a scene from Mamma Mia!. Image: Universal Pictures.

Dancing Disco Divas by Linh

Based on the stage musical, Mamma Mia! is brought to the silver screen with a stellar cast including Meryl Streep, Pierce Brosnan and Colin Firth. Producer of the stage version, Judy Craymer and director Phyllida Lloyd have remained loyal to Catherine Johnson's script, transposing the hit musical from stage to screen.

With the blessings of ABBA band members Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, who were also the executive producers alongside Hollywood super couple Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson, more than twenty ABBA songs are performed and woven into the narrative.

In the simplistic plot, Sophie Sheridan is about to get married and lives on a beautiful Greek island with her mother, Donna, who runs a crumbling hotel. Sophie has never known her father and dreams of finding him to walk her down the aisle. She finds her mother's diary and invites three candidates who might be father to attend the wedding, without telling her mother.

Double Oscar winner Meryl Streep is definitely the stand out performer amongst a talented ensemble cast. Having sung in numerous stage and screen productions, the role of Donna seems to be a vocal fit for the likeable Streep. Even doing the slits mid-air while singing and bouncing about on a bed comes naturally to her. Streep has a powerful vocal delivery and is sensational in her dance sequences. Her highlight is the emotionally gut-wrenching The Winner Takes It All, but other solos of note include Money, Money, Money and Mamma Mia.

Amanda Seyfried, of Mean Girls fame, stars as the wide-eyed and sweet-voiced Sophie, who is engaging and shines with humour in her lead vocals for Honey, Honey, moving and melodic in I Have A Dream and in romantic mode for her duet with Dominic Cooper, Lay All Your Love On Me.

British actress Julie Walters is Rosie, the comical and supportive writer friend of Donna's, who is also a member of the girl power band Donna and the Dynamos. Walters delivers here harmony parts in Chiquitita, Dancing Queen and Super Trouper with aplomb. Her duet with Stellan Skarsgård, Take A Chance on Me is an absolute hoot.

Christine Baranski is the bold and brassy socialite, Tanya, who is also a member of Donna and the Dynamos, with a huge sexual appetite for younger men. She is hilarious in her duet with young suitor, Philip Michael,with Does Your Mother Know?, and provides brilliant harmonies in Gimme, Gimme, Gimme (A Man After Midnight)and I Do, I Do, I Do.

Although the male cast for Mamma Mia! looks stylish, their vocal prowess lacks the intensity and energy compared to the ladies.

Pierce Brosnan plays the architect, Sam Carmichael, whose heart still burns for Donna after twenty years apart. Brosnan adds the same suave and smoothness to Sam as he does for James Bond, but his singing is a little rough around the edges. Despite this, Brosnan is capable of carrying a tune (you could even hear his Irish accent while he sings) and he gives his all in S.O.S and Our Last Summer.

Everyone's favourite Mr Darcy, Colin Firth, is amazing as the former rebel rocker turned corporate banker, Harry 'Headbanger' Bright. Firth is the strongest vocally and musically of the male leads, even playing his guitar during Our Last Summer. He lends his talented vocals in harmony for Gimme, Gimme, Gimme (A Man After Midnight) and Voulez-Vous.

Other notable performances come courtesy of Stellan Skarsgård as Bill Anderson, Sophie's third possible father and travel writer whose care-free spirit and larrikin humour provide comic relief; Dominic Copper as Sophie's fiancee, Sky, has barely enough screen time, yet he is competent as singer and dancer; and the actors who play the hotel staff and also double as chorus singers and backing dancers throughout
were excellent.

Eagle-eyed audiences would be able to spot ABBA members Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus in cameo roles during the middle and the end of the film. Stay around for a special encore performance from the entire cast, that's ABBA-solutely fABBA-ulous.
It's a nostalgic dance down the 1970s dicso memory lane, with sequins, skin tight spandex and silver-soled platform boots.
Whether or not you've seen the stage musical, it won't affect your enjoyment of the sparkling and exhilarating spectacle of Mamma Mia! The Movie.

Kung Fu Panda ; animated family film review (Advance Screening)

2008-06-22T17:33:00.017+09:30

ANIMATED AWESOMENESS: Monkey (Jackie Chan), Viper (Lucy Liu), Po (Jack Black), ShiFu (Dustin Hoffman) and Tai Lung (Ian McShane) in Kung Fu Panda.
Image: Paramount Pictures/Dreamworks.

Panda With Po-tential by Linh

Kung Fu Panda is Dreamworks latest venture into CGI animated family entertainment and its star-studded cast of vocal talent is a definite drawcard.

Besides the CGI, the film is impressive in its use of comic timing and character idiosyncrasies to highlight humour and fun throughout.

The film's story is set in ancient China in the Valley of Peace, where a chubby and clumsy Panda named Po works in his father's noodle shop. Po dreams of becoming a Kung Fu Master who fights alongside his idols, The Furious Five (Tigress, Viper, Monkey, Crane and Mantis). In order to fulfill an ancient Chinese prophecy, Master Oogway calls for a competition to determine the next Dragon Warrior to defend the city against the ruthless Tai Lung. Po unexpectedly is chosen and he must work harder than he's ever worked before to learn the art of Kung Fu, and protect the city from an oncoming threat.

The affable and huggable Jack Black voices the cuddly and good natured Po (Panda) and is an instant favourite with the audience as he starts from scratch to become the next Kung Fu hero. Po's childlike mannerisms and determination to conquer his quest to fulfill the prophecy endears him to all.

Dustin Hoffman gives a stern but solid vocal delivery as Master ShiFu (Red Panda), the one who must train Po to become the Dragon Warrior. ShiFu is at first reluctant to waste his time on a fat, lazy Panda, but realises he must put his prejudices aside to fulfill the ancient prophecy and save the city.

Master Oogway (Tortoise)is voiced by Randall Duk Kim, and is the wisest and most elite of Kung Fu masters. He is the Yoda of the film spurting words of wisdom and encouragement when Po loses hope and confidence in himself.

The Furious Five comprising of Tigress (Angelina Jolie), Viper (Lucy Liu), Monkey (Jackie Chan), Mantis (Seth Rogen) and Crane (David Cross), provide some of the comic relief and drama as Po struggles to learn the skills necessary to fight Tai Lung.
Together the quintet are a powerful force to be reckoned with, and individually they are equally formidable.

Ian McShane lends his voice to the vengeful former student of Master ShiFu, Tai Lung (Snow Leopard) who has escaped from his imprisonment to earn what he believes is his destiny to be the next Dragon Warrior. His fight scenes with Po are both hilarious and compelling as the animated Kung Fu action sequences delight and beguile.

Kung Fu Panda is wonderfully entertaining for the entire family, with its brightly coloured and stylised drawings and brilliant animation. There's a message for everyone in the film - believing in yourself to achieve your dreams is one for younger audiences, while the more mature can heed the message of turning your weaknesses into your strengths to overcome life's obstacles.

Kung Fu Panda screens in cinemas from June 26.

Speed Racer; family film review

2008-06-15T20:31:00.009+09:30

TEAM EFFORT: Trixie (Christina Ricci), Mom (Susan Sarandon), Pops (John Goodman) and Sparky (Kick Gurry) help rebuild the Mach 5 to get Speed (Emile Hirsch) into the Grand Prix in Speed Racer. Image: Warner Brothers Pictures.

Maximum Visual Velocity by Linh

Directors and writers Larry and Andy Wachowski of The Matrix Trilogy fame, have given Japanimation an innovative visual twist in their latest film Speed Racer.
Speed Racer is the film adaptation of the 1960s cartoon television series, and is a combination of eye-popping visual effects infused with every colour of the spectrum. The CGI of all the racing sequences are supported with a dramatic heartbeat of family values and the fight against corporate corruption.

The film tells of a young race car driver named Speed Racer whose older brother, Rex Racer, was allegedly killed in a cross country race as a result of race fixing. Speed and his family resist the temptation to drive for dodgy businessman and owner of Royalton Industries, EP Arnold Royalton, who consequently threatens Speed with impending poverty and oblivion if he refuses to join the corporate giant. Remaining loyal to his family racing business, Speed teams up with the mysterious Racer X to win the Grand Prix and expose the corrupt cheats in the racing industry.

The ensemble cast is impressive, yet their talents are mostly wasted as acting prowess takes a back seat to the whizz-bang, optically vibrant imagery on screen. However, all the leading players make a lasting impression and add a special quality to their characters.

Emile Hirsch stars as the baby-faced man-boy, Speed Racer, whose real talents lie behind the wheel of a race car. Hirsch keeps the adrenaline pumping in all his race car scenes amidst the brightly coloured landscapes and video-game style race sequences. All the car-fu (automobile martial arts) in mid air and off the cliff edge were awe-inspiring and would have any racing fan on the edge of their seat.

Christina Ricci plays Speed’s childhood sweetheart, Trixie, and is his eye-in-the-sky as she keeps watch in her helicopter during his races. More than just a pretty face, Trixie can jostle the throttle and burn the rubber in a race car with the best drivers – much to Speed’s delight. Christina Ricci may not have much to say as Trixie, other than “Cool beans” or “Hubba bubba”, yet she can certainly pack a punch with her fists and kicks butt with her fast legwork.

John Goodman is perfectly cast as the patriarch of the Racer family, Pops Racer, whose skills and talent lies in car building and strategic driving/planning. Pops has been in the racing game for a long time and understands how the greed and corruption in the racing industry ruins lives and breaks up families. John Goodman is wonderfully robust and quick witted as Pops, even cracking jokes faster than Indiana Jones cracks whips.

Susan Sarandon is the mother of all mothers as Speed’s mum, Mom Racer. Sarandon makes Mom perkier than Jane Jetson, more womanly than Wilma Flinstone and is the emotional glue that keeps the Racer family together in times of trauma and tragedy. Not only is she adept in her pancake making and peanut-butter-and jelly sandwiches artistry, Mom also helps build cars alongside Pops.

Star of television series Lost, Matthew Fox gives a slightly subdued performance as the mysterious Racer X. Perhaps his character’s got something to hide? Fox brings a strong competitive streak to Racer X, who’s most animated in the car racing sequences and really comes alive on the track.

Other notable performances include British actor Roger Allam as the villainous EP Arnold Royalton whose tantrums are legendary; Australian actor Kick (Christopher) Gurry is hilarious as the Racer family’s sweet and sensitive resident mechanic Sparky; Korean superstar Rain as the reckless and ambitious driver Taejo Togokahn is superbly suited as the ally to Speed and Racer X; Paulie Litt is excellent as Speed’s annoying younger brother Spritle, along with his cheeky pet chimpanzee Chim Chim and a supporting cast of many cultures help highlight the international appeal of motor racing as a sport and passion.

Speed Racer seduces your senses by luring you into a fantasy world of vivid colours, chaos, cars and chromatic intensity. The Wachowski brothers have created a fun and family-friendly escapade which may set the benchmark for future fantasy or science fiction films with the use of visual/special effects.

WINNERS' CIRCLE: Kick Gurry, Susan Sarandon, John Goodman, Christina Ricci and Emile Hirsch watch on as Paulie Litt and Chim Chim celebrate in Speed Racer. Image: Warner Brothers Pictures.

The Female of the Species; comedy farce theatre review

2008-04-30T20:37:00.011+09:30

NO FEMME FATALE: Amanda Muggleton as Margot Mason (seated) and Rhiannon Owen as Molly Rivers in rehearsals for The Female of the Species. Image: Shane Reid.

The Funny Side of Feminism by Linh

Australian playwright Joanna Murray-Smith’s play, The Female of the
Species, is inspired by an incident involving famous feminist Germaine Greer, who was gagged and cuffed by a teenage girl at her country house in Essex.

That’s where the similarities end. The real dramatic thrust begins when family, friends and strangers enter the feminist’s home; forcing her to account for the legacy of her feminist polemics. The Female of the Species is about sexual politics, generational differences and the power and consequences of feminist literature.

One of Australia’s leading ladies of the stage, Amanda Muggleton, stars as the infamous feminist author of The Cerebral Vagina, Margot Mason.
Margot Mason is suffering serious writer’s block and facing deadline after deadline, as her publisher pushes for her to complete the latest best seller.
Margot is a witty and foul-mouthed provocateur, who loves French windows because they’re “slim, stylish and up themselves”.
Muggleton is superbly sharp with the puns and quick with the verbal twists, all delivered with panache; even though she performs most of the play while handcuffed to a table.

Rhiannon Owen makes her debut with the State Theatre of SA as Molly Rivers, the gun-toting teenager who takes Margot Mason hostage.
Molly Rivers was one of Margot’s students, yet her admiration turns to accusation. Molly blames Margot for ruining her life and for her mother’s death. Molly’s Mum took all of Margot’s advice and gave away her baby so as not to be enslaved by motherhood. She then jumped under a train as she was clutching The Cerebral Vagina to her breasts. Molly becomes a fan of the feminist and decides to sterilise herself in order to preserve her creativity. She becomes disheartened and angry when Margot tells her she has no talent.
Rhiannon Owen is capable of holding an audience captivated as her character holds Margot hostage. Owen handles the wordy and intelligent script with the same proficiency her character handles the handgun throughout the play. She is definitely one talented actress to watch in the future.

Adelaide’s own Michaela Cantwell plays Margot Mason’s daughter, Tess, who stumbles into her mother’s home in a state of exhaustion and confusion.
Tess has mindlessly wandered from her house, before taking a taxi to her mother’s home in order to escape the relentless noise of her children.
Tess is not too impressed when she hears of her mother’s disparaging remarks about motherhood being a form of domestic servitude. Tess has never known her father and her mother tries to keep it that way.
Michaela Cantwell is flawlessly funny and fiercely frank as the daughter of a celebrity feminist and an exhausted mother who refuses to go home until she knows “where Pokemons go for their holidays.”

The male members of the cast also have their way with the play’s questioning of the power and consequences arising from feminism.

Well-travelled Adelaidean, Peter Michell, portrays Tess’ doting and devoted husband, Bryan.
Bryan is a hardworking stockbroker who constantly spouts hilarious double entendres such as “I love you Tess, you know I’ve always mounted you on a pedestal.”
Peter Michell is a joy to watch and succeeds in making Bryan (a very sensitive new age guy) the only likeable character in the play.

Talented thespian and playwright Tony Briggs is the very masculine and macho taxi driver, Frank.
Frank enters Margot Mason’s home in order to ask Tess why she won’t listen to his problems. He also seems to know what women want and how he can give it to them.
Tony Briggs is in excellent form as the virile and ethnic young male, and adds a different level of energy to the play.

Allrounder Geoff Revell hams it up as Margot Mason’s over-the-top gay publisher, Theo.
Theo has been a long time friend and publisher to Margot, and was hassling her, over the phone, for a copy of her latest book before Molly appeared.
Geoff Revell is fabulously camp and convincing as the pushy publisher who holds a secret to Margot Mason’s past.
Although Theo appears only in the last thirty minutes of the play, Revell makes the most of every moment with his usual comic brilliance.

Production designer Mary Moore has created an awe-inspiring set where the cast is placed upon a huge open Macbook with a couple of bellowing (sacred) cows, and a living room adorned with many historical ‘female’ artefacts.

Director Catherine Fitzgerald has excelled in keeping the play engaging and entertaining for the audience and making it enjoyable for the actors.

NO ESCAPE: Margot Mason (Amanda Muggleton) tries to free herself as Molly Rivers (Rhiannon Owen) talks to Tess (Michaela Cantwell) in The Female of the Species. Image: Shane Reid.

Adelaide Festival of Arts - Northern Lights Display

2008-03-16T22:47:00.061+10:30

Adelaide's Lights Spectacular by Linh

By day, the cultural precinct along North Terrace in Adelaide attracts crowds to marvel at the wonders inside the various buildings, but at night the attraction is external.

Throughout the 2008 Adelaide Festival of Arts season, buildings including Elder Hall, Bonython Hall and the Art Gallery are splashed with luminous lights from the entire rainbow spectrum for the Northern Lights display installation.

Sydney-based projection specialists, The Electric Canvas, have created a brilliant series of colourful and bright projections using digital software and huge French-made system projectors for the facades of art and cultural bulidings along North Terrace.

Northern Lights have about seventy diferent projections and changes every five minutes, delighting crowds of all ages who are keen to catch a glimpse or photograph the exhibition.

Northern Lights has been extended until the end of March 2008 from 8pm to 1am every night along North Terrace in the city.

Bonython Hall by day:

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Bonython Hall by night:

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Elder Hall by day:

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Elder Hall by night:

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Art Gallery by day:

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Art Gallery by night:

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South Australian Museum by day:

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South Australian Museum by night:

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Mitchell Building by day:

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Mitchell Building by night:

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Institute Building by day:

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Institute Building by night:

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Image: Linh, www.linh-chameleon.blogspot.com

Image: Linh, www.linh-chameleon.blogspot.com

Image: Linh, www.linh-chameleon.blogspot.com

Adelaide Fringe Festival - One Man Star Wars Trilogy; comedy review

2008-03-15T22:10:00.010+10:30

A GALAXY OF HIS OWN: Charles Ross performs his solo comedy show One Man Star Wars Trilogy for the Adelaide Fringe Festival.
Image: Jason Woodruff

May The Laughs Be With You by Linh

After performing his comedy show One Man Star Wars Trilogy around the world for six years, Charles Ross can still keep the production fresh and spontaneous.

His characterisations of Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, C3PO and Chewbacca are all performed on stage in scenes at a cracking pace. Charles Ross brings to life all the major and minor, good and evil characters from the original Star Wars trilogy without props, costumes or fancy special effects.

Charles Ross is a Star Wars addict who has seen the trilogy over 400 times, and handles all the characters and special effects with comedic flair. His Darth Vader voice is deep and disturbing, he buzzes to reveal a light saber, walks and grunts like a wookie. He sings the music, performs the opening credits, fights the battles and condenses the plots of all three original films into one hour.

The only downside to One Man Star Wars Trilogy is that one must be familiar with the Star Wars films and characters to really appreciate and comprehend the hilarity of the send-ups. The humour would be lost in space if one weren't au fait with the Star Wars phenomenon. Although, to watch a grown man re-live his childhood love of Star Wars on stage is a wonderous sight to behold and equally humourous.

Adelaide Fringe Festival - Rove McManus Stand Up Tour; comedy review

2008-03-15T12:20:00.005+10:30

SOMETHING FISHY: Rove McManus fishes for laughs with his latest Adelaide Fringe comedy show.
Image: Token Artists

Comic Marvel by Linh

Thunderous drum beats in pitch darkness followed by an immediate burst of bright lights flooding the audience is how Rove McManus opens his latest stand up comedy show.

Rove McManus (real name John McManus) knows how to make an entrance and his self-titled Adelaide Fringe show highlights his witty nature and keen mental awareness of looking for opportunities to pounce on for laughs. Rove’s energetic and well-paced performance harpooning celebrities, politicians and technological advancements, sends the audience into fits of laughter.

Rove displays his personable side as he chats with audience members about nicknames or Adelaide’s record-breaking heatwave. Rove’s bemoaning of the heat bringing on heat rage and ways to stay cool while keeping your cool is comic gold. His bizarre and down-to-earth nature is evident as he’s bemused by other people’s dreams of fame and having their names in bright lights while he’s equally content with having his name in fish faeces.

Rove’s facial distortions, wild and effective movements and body language gives the show a theatrical vibe with sparks of spontaneity to keep the audience on their toes. Highlights include the classic Benny Hill sped up chase scenes complete with a short, bald and elderly man chasing a scantily clad woman on stage, his audio presentations of US President George W Bush’s numerous gaffes and Rove’s hip-swivelling rap song Baby Bump.

Rove McManus’ comic material reflects his individualistic comedic talents of making the mundane seem hysterical, while his natural ability of making the effort look effortless is admirable.

Before The Devil Knows You're Dead; crime thriller film review (Advance Screening)

2008-03-15T11:46:00.014+10:30

DEVIOUS DUO: Andrew and Hank Hanson (Philip Seymour Hoffman and Ethan Hawke) discover their Mother is in a coma in Before The Devil Knows You're Dead.
Image: Will Hart, ThinkFilm.

Devilish Deeds by Linh

Director Sidney Lumet's latest crime thriller borrows the name and theme from the Irish proverb "May you be in Heaven half an hour before the Devil knows you're dead."
Before The Devil Knows You’re Dead is one of Lumet’s best directorial work and Kelly Masterson's excellent script combines intricately woven plots and interlaced flashbacks with a brilliant cast who brings bravado and energy to characters with few redeeming qualities.

The flashbacks are cleverly presented out of sequence and relates to a particular character; with each flashback labelled as before the robbery, the day of the robbery and days after the robbery.
Before The Devil Knows You’re Dead leaves the viewer breathless during some scenes and shocked during others, yet one never feels much sympathy for any of the characters.

The opening scene shows Philip Seymour Hoffman and Marisa Tomei, who play husband and wife Andrew and Gina Hanson, naked and performing an explicit sex act. They seem an unlikely pair with the hint that their marriage is in shambles. This scene is only the first piece of the bewildering puzzle and just the beginning of Andrew Hanson’s problems.

Oscar winner Philip Seymour Hoffman is wonderfully convincing as the flawed and desperate Andrew Hanson who is defrauding his company, addicted to drugs and devises a plan to commit a robbery with his younger brother Hank.

Ethan Hawke gives a strong performance as the soft-hearted and gutless wonder Hank Hanson who’s estranged from his wife and teenage daughter, has numerous debts to pay and unwittingly agrees to his brother’s robbery plan.

In a commanding yet understated portrayal of Charles Hanson, father of Andrew and Hank, Albert Finney is a stand out. Finney provides Charles with the simmering rage underneath the calm composure despite being hell bent on revenge, even when he discovers the identity of the one responsible for his wife’s death is closer to home.

Before The Devil Knows You’re Dead succeeds in bringing rivetting performances, compelling moments featuring murder, adultery, drugs and revenge to create a meticulously crafted masterpiece.

Dr Seuss' Horton Hears A Who; animated family film review (Advance Screening)

2008-03-15T11:43:00.005+10:30

ANIMATED ANIMOSITY: Horton (voiced by Jim Carrey) and Kangaroo (voiced by Carol Burnett) agree to disagree in Horton Hears A Who!
Image: Twentieth Century Fox

Passionate Pachyderm by Linh

Horton Hears A Who! is a computer generated animated feature from the makers of the Ice Age films, and is based on Dr Seuss’ ‘Horton’ series of children’s books.

It’s the third Dr Seuss tale brought to the big screen following its predecessors, The Grinch and The Cat in the Hat. The previous two films were less successful live action films, yet Horton is an animated joy which delights the imagination and evokes the essence of Dr Seuss’ text.

The story tells of a friendly and imaginative elephant named Horton who hears a cry for help from a speck of dust floating through the air. Horton suspects there’s a community living on the speck that needs his help, but no-one would believe him. Horton then makes contact with an inhabitant of the speck and embarks on a journey to save his new found friends.

Although boasting some big names in the ensemble vocal cast, Horton Hears A Who! succeeds in exhibiting the personalities of the film’s characters more than the personalities behind the film’s characters.
Jim Carrey lends his voice to create a lovable and passionate Horton whose belief that “a person’s a person, no matter how small” makes him risk everything to save those too tiny for him to see, but loud enough for him to hear.
Steve Carell is aptly flustered and flabbergasted as the Mayor of Who-ville who has ninety seven children, a son who hasn’t spoken in years, and is under pressure from Who-ville’s Town Council who are waiting for him to slip up.
Carol Burnett plays Kangaroo to the hilt, as a strict and snobbish mother who fears imagination and creativity results in anarchy and chaos in her orderly structured life. She even refuses to allow her joey, Rudy (Josh Flitter) to leave her pouch.

Other notable performances are Will Arnett’s Vlad the eagle who’s a wannabe-supervillain; Isla Fisher’s loopy scatterbrain Dr Mary Lou Larue, the scientist helping the Mayor save Who-ville; Seth Rogen’s fleet footed Morton the mouse who is Horton’s best friend and Charles Osgood’s narration brings authority and sincerity to Dr Seuss’ rhyming verses.

A special treat is the teaser trailer for Ice Age 3 – Dawn of the Dinosaurs, preceding Horton Hears A Who!, which features Scrat scrambling about in pursuit of his acorn.

The story’s simple message of believing in and helping others strikes a chord with audiences of all ages, making Horton Hears A Who! an enjoyable film.

Adelaide Fringe Festival - Terri Psiakis, Pending Nuptials; comedy review

2008-03-04T19:47:00.012+10:30

TERRI-FIC TALES: Terri Psiakis prepares for her Pending Nuptials.
Image: Token Artists.

Hilariously Hymeneal by Linh

Following her highly successful and critically acclaimed comedy shows Available and Unavailable, Terri Psiakis returns to the Adelaide Fringe Festival with a work in progress.

Pending Nuptials may be still in its embryonic stages and is subject to audience scrutiny, yet Adelaideans are fortunate to be guinea pigs for Psiakis' latest swipes and gripes with comic brilliance. It's her sequel to the first two comedy shows; close to being finessed and polished for maximum laughability.

Upon entry, Psiakis presents friendly hospitality with a smile and a deliciously soft fruit chew, more out of gratitude for one's attendance than a bribe. After the niceties are complete, Psiakis launches into a laugh-out-loud series of anecdotes on the mayhem, frustrations and madness of preparing a wedding.

The performance includes audio presentations of Psiakis' telephone conversations when ordering flowers, the conflicting choices of wedding songs chosen by her and 'the bloke' (the groom prefers to remain anonymous) along with her sophisticated technique of relativity (where you laugh as you relate to everything she says).

Psiakis is one of the most engaging and down-to-earth performers who sees the laughter in daily life while finding the humour to support it. The jokes come thick and fast as the obvious sounds much funnier coming from her comedic perspective.

Pending Nuptials with Terri Psiakis is staged at the Bosco Theatre, in the Garden of Unearthly Delights until March 6.

In The Valley of Elah; mystery drama film review (Advance Screening)

2008-02-22T08:54:00.016+10:30

ESSENCE OF HUMANITY: Hank and Joan Deerfield (Tommy Lee Jones and Susan Sarandon) deal with losing another son in the film In The Valley of Elah.
Image: Warner Independent Pictures

Post-War Pains by Linh

Writer, producer and director Paul Haggis' latest film In The Valley of Elah is a mystery thriller and drama concerning a former military police investigator and war veteran, Hank Deerfield, who goes in search of his missing son, Mike, with the help of a reluctant civilian officer,Detective Emily Sanders, only to discover the horrifying truth surrounding his son's death.

In The Valley of Elah is inspired by a true story and addresses the human costs of war rather than the politics surrounding it. The title comes from the biblical story of David and Goliath where David slays Goliath in the Valley of Elah.
It's an allegory to Hank seeing himself as David who has to fight the might of the American military for the truth of his son's death and their determination to cover it up.

The ensemble cast is brilliant in handling the emotional content and ambiguous script to bring a film that goes to the heart of human conflict and tragedy with US soldiers returning from war.

Tommy Lee Jones gives an Oscar-calibre performance as Hank Deerfield who starts questioning his long held beliefs of the America he once supported, which now misuses and places its young soldiers in horrific situations, then help is not forthcoming when they return.
Jones' sincere and deeply reflective portrayal of Hank is superb and worthy of his Best Actor Oscar nomination for this film.

Charlize Theron plays Detective Emily Sanders who assists Hank Deerfield by investigating his son's disappearance. Theron does well in showing a tougher edge as the lone woman in a male dominated workplace and then a gentler side as the single mum to a young son.

Susan Sarandon has a small but pivotal role as Joan Deerfield, wife of Hank and mother of Mike, who excels as the griefstricken mother and long suffering wife of Hank in an already tense relationship.

Jonathan Tucker appears as Mike Deerfield, but only in photographs, in the grainy images recorded on his mobile phone and throughout Hank's flashbacks of his son. Tucker gives a powerful performance as the brave soldier who was serving his country, before returning to find he barely recognises himself as post-traumatic stress disorder sets in.

Cinematographer Roger Deakins' subtle lighting and excellent camerawork adds to the intrigue of Paul Haggis' script.

In The Valley of Elah is a moving and thought-provoking film that's heavy with symbolic gestures with a brutally honest depiction of the de-humanisation of soldiers fighting in a climate of fear and death, and the impact of their experiences psychologically and emotionally.

Tropfest 2008 - in Adelaide under the stars; short film festival (part two)

2008-02-17T23:20:00.004+10:30

A film inspired by a true stoy has won first prize for Tropfest 2008. Adelaide-born and Sydney-based director Michelle Lehman was shocked but stoked to win for Marry Me, saying that everyone, "worked so hard on this film."

When she was little, Michelle Lehman recalls running after a boy named Jason in the playground while in her pretend wedding gown, which happened to be her Mum's nightie.

The mum-to-be is due to give birth in a month's time and joked that she hoped the shock of winning won't send her into early labour.

South Australia had two films in the final sixteen, William Allert's Dusk and Sarah Crowest's Looped. Looped won for Best Screenplay, but Dusk missed out on an award.

Although this year's signature theme was the 'number eight', it was interesting to note that the majority of the films amongst the sixteen finalists featured performers under the age of 18. The list of talented youngsters, including winner of the Best Female Actor Award, Jahla Bryant, appeared in The Code, Dusk, Scab, Marry Me, and Uncle Jonny.

Founder of Tropfest and creative director, John Polson said the standard and quality of the entires this year were outstanding, and announced the signature theme for next year will be 'Spring'.

Tropfest 2008 Winners:

First Prize Film - Marry Me

Runner Up Film- Uncle Jonny

Second Runner Up Film- Great White Hunters

Best Actor - Andrew Gilmour, Smitten

Best Female Actor - Jahla Bryant, Marry Me

Best Young Talent - Shardyn Fahey, The Code

Best Animation Award - Fault

Best Original Score - Craig McLean, White Lines

Best Editing - Scab

Best Screenplay - Sarah Crowest, Looped

Best Comedy - Great White Hunters

Special Tropicana - Scab

Women in Film - Jayne Montague, Glass

Tropfest 2008 - Under the stars in Adelaide; short film festival (part one)

2008-02-17T10:57:00.007+10:30

Watch My Shorts by Linh

The iconic short film festival Tropfest returned to Adelaide after ten years and the Media Resource Centre presented the event under the stars in Rundle Park, near the Garden of Unearthly Delights.

Comedian and television/radio personality Adam Spencer hosted the event from Sydney via satellite and the programme included South Australian films and local artists providing the live entertainment.

Two South Australian films made the finals with Sarah Crowest's Looped and Will Allert's Dusk.

The sixteen finalists are:

Ascension
Dir: David Easteal (ACT)
A film about two men trapped in an elevator with no way out.

Mouse Race!
Dir: Paul Williams (VIC)
Australians will bet on anything - but mice? A fascinating and funny journey into the seedy world of amateur mouse racing.

Beggar's Belief
Dir: Colin Cairnes (VIC)
A young man, down on his luck, approaches passers-by for some spare change. His improbable tale of woe just doesn't seem to be doing the trick but a kind of soul comes along and offers him the very last thing he needs.

Smitten
Dir: Grey Rogers (QLD)
Majestic, pretty surroundings, a quiet old horse, and three sweet members of the older generation - but don't be fooled. Something sinister is about to unfold.

The Code
Dir: Murray Fahey (NSW)
Damian is the brains of his Year 7 class. He devises a secret code to pass a multiple-choice test. Will the code be broken?

Scab
Dir: Koichi Iguchi (Japan)
Cute, itchy, and hard. Do you leave it alone or eat it? Whatever you do - don't pick it.

Fault
Dir: Daniel Miller (ACT)
Animation. A creation story. A myth. Your world is your paradise, but what if you lose it? Do you get a second chance? Do you deserve one?

White lines
Dir: Craig MacLean (VIC)
When a routine bust goes horribly wrong, a rookie ignores the book and his partner by placing his career on the line to bring his man down on any cost.

Made in Australia
Dir: Monte Macpherson (SCOTLAND/AUSTRALIA)
Determined to succeed at Sony Tropfest, amateur Scottish filmmakers Peter and Brian go all out to produce a film which they know will melt the hearts of even the toughest Australian audience.

Uncle Jonny
Dir: Mark Constable (VIC)
Uncle Jonny is the best mate of a seven-year-old who daydreams during class.

Blues for the Soul
Dir: Dean Preston (TAS)
Peter Crowe gives us an insight into what music means to all of us and how it affects our well-being. Can music heal? Can it give us hope? Maybe the muic will give you the answers.

Marry Me
Dir: Michelle Lehman (SA/NSW)
A little love story about a little girl who likes a little boy and a little boy who likes his BMX bike.

Great White Hunters
Dir: Gary Doust (NSW)
Three fishing buddies set out to land "the ultimate catch".

Glass
Dir: Jayne Montague (NSW)
John's life is thrown into confusion when he is confronted by a woman late one night.

Looped
Dir: Sarah Crowest (SA)
A humourous yet darkly tinged film explores the impulse towards repetitive acts through a focus on a handful of individuals. One person's comforting routine is another's compulsion to ritualise.

Dusk
Dir: William Allert (SA)
In the summer of '77, a boy and a girl hide in the sand hills and look life in the eye.

Definitely, Maybe; romantic comedy film review

2008-02-16T12:34:00.012+10:30

POLITICS OF LOVE: Ryan Reynolds as Will Hayes and Isla Fisher as April in a scene from Definitely, Maybe.
Image: Universal Pictures, www.movieweb.com

Definitely Friends, Maybe Lovers by Linh

Definitely, Maybe tells the story of a soon-to-be divorced father, Will Hayes, who has failed in love three times. His inquisitive daughter, Maya, asks how he met and fell in love with her mother. Will tells the story as a puzzle, with the names altered to keep his daughter guessing which of the three ladies is her mother. The film then flashes back sixteen years when Will leaves Wisconsin for New York to work on the Clinton Presidential campaign. He soon finds himself romantically involved with three very different women.

Ryan Reynolds is the well-meaning and amiable character Will Hayes, whose presence as a father and a lover is overshadowed by the females in his life, including his daughter. Reynolds downplays his character as if highlighting the roles of males in aspects of love and romance as passive while the females are the instigators and embracers of change. However, where his character's romantic ways are fallow, there is plenty of energy and enthusiasm in his work as political campaigner and consultant.

Isla Fisher sparkles on the screen as the apolitical April, whose character meets Will at the Democrats' campaign office in New York. April soon becomes Will's confidante and best friend, and they share laughs and personal stories with alcohol and cigarettes. April is one of the stronger and more complex female roles in the film which Fisher tackles deftly and with aplomb.

Rachel Weisz gives a consummate performance as Summer, a journalist for 'New Yorker' magazine, whose gentle and free-spirited exterior hides a tough and ambitious personality. Summer's fling with Will ends in heartbreak and job-loss for him, yet her resilience keeps her on top of her game.

Abigail Breslin shines in the role of Maya, Will's ten year old daughter. Maya may seem precocious at times, but mostly her cuteness factor wins over the audience.

Elizabeth Banks plays Emily, Will's wholesome and pretty college girlfriend who breaks up with him after sleeping with her room mate. Seemingly a minor role, yet Emily's actions have a far greater impact on Will than those of the other women. Banks succeeds in maintaining an air of mystery about Emily which makes the character seem hard to forget.

Definitely, Maybe is charming in its attempt to make the complications of love and relationships intriguing, yet fails to keep the momentum flowing throughout. With a romantic mystery plot combined with affable characters, Definitely, Maybe is slightly better than the usual batch of Valentine's Day film releases.

Le Scaphandre et le Papillon/The Diving Bell and The Butterfly; French arthouse film review (advance screening)

2008-02-08T15:17:00.000+10:30

EXCEPTIONAL: Mathieu Almaric as Jean-Dominique Bauby and Marie-Josée Croze as Henriette in a scene from Le Scaphandre et le Papillon/The Diving Bell and The Butterfly.
Image: Miramax Films, www.thedivingbellandthebutterfly-themovie.com

Windows To The Soul by Linh

Le scaphandre et le papillon/The Diving Bell and The Butterfly is based on the book about the true story of French author and editor of Elle magazine Jean-Dominique Bauby, who suffers a stroke at age 43. After twenty days in a coma, he wakes to find he's almost speechless. Bauby could only move his mouth a little, grunt, and blink his left eyelid. His rare condition is called Locked-In syndrome and has been made into a moving and beautiful film.

Director Julian Schnabel had Ron Harwood's script for Le scaphandre et le papillon/The Diving Bell and The Butterfly changed from its original English version to French in order to remain true to Bauby's life story.
Schnabel and cinematographer Janusz Kaminski brilliantly provides the visual intimacy by making the camera become Bauby's eye in most scenes. This technique effectively enables the audience to experience everything from Bauby's perspective, engaging the viewer on a deeper and profound level.

Mathieu Almaric gives a commanding performance as the wheelchair bound Bauby, who is capable of exuding charisma and charm with the blink of an eye.

Marie-Josée Croze is Henriette, the speech therapist, who teaches Bauby a communication code by reciting to him the most used French letters of the alphabet and getting Bauby to blink once for 'Yes' and twice for 'No' to spell out words.
Croze is sensitive and highly spirited as the affable Henriette and manages to keep Bauby the centre of attention even though the camera (Bauby's eye) is focussed on her.

Emmanuelle Seigner plays Céline, Bauby's estranged partner and the mother of his children, whose desperate attempts to reach out to him fails. Seigner displays plenty of passion and endurance as Bauby's long suffering partner with many poignant moments of spending time with him and the children.

Max Von Sydow stars as Bauby's father Papinou, and succeeds in bringing joy in scenes before Bauby's stroke and sadness while his son becomes teary-eyed as Papinou speaks to him on the telephone.

Le Scaphandre et le Papillon/The Diving Bell and The Butterfly is a cinematic marvel that combines present scenes with flashbacks of Bauby enjoying life to the fullest with a successful career, surrounded by beautiful women and spending time with his children and his father. It also takes the viewer into the vividly wild imagination of a man who feels trapped inside his body; underwater and immobile like a diving bell, yet his consciousness is free and flits about energetically like a butterfly.

Walk Hard - Dewey Cox Story; film review

2008-01-31T19:38:00.000+10:30

SPOOFING IT UP: Jenna Fischer as Darlene Madison and John C Reilly as Dewey Cox in a scene from 'Walk Hard - The Dewey Cox Story'.
Image: Columbia Pictures

Pastiche Parody by Linh

'Walk Hard - The Dewey Cox Story' is a mocumentary with ironic pop culture references, and crass sexual humour. It's a parody on the musical biopics like 'Ray' and 'Walk The Line', with the lead character encompassing the musical and personality traits of Johnny Cash, Ray Charles, Elvis Presley and Bob Dylan.

The film follows the life of Dewey Cox who accidentally chops his brother in half with a machete, then becomes one the most successful musicians from the 1950s to 2007. Along the way to musical stardom, Dewey Cox experiences all the drugs, sex and rock 'n roll, with hysterical results and running gags.

Co-writer and producer Judd Apatow ('Knocked Up', 'Anchorman' and 'The 40 Year Old Virgin'), combines his flair for satirical absurdity with director Jake Kasdan's tongue in cheek approach to create a spoof which pokes fun at every element of Hollywood biopics, albeit with a serious tone.

John C Reilly shines and is convincing as he sings and plays guitar in his role as the hardworking and impressionable Dewey Cox.

Jenna Fischer plays the seductive and sprightly Darlene Madison and Fischer's interpretation of her character cleverly combines the passion of June Carter and the sex appeal of Marilyn Monroe.

Tim Meadows is hilarious as the drummer of Dewey's band whose delivery of one-liners are sharp and deadpan.

Raymond J Barry gives a solid performance as Pa Cox who's unwilling to forgive Dewey for killing his brother and effectively delivers the emotionally frustrating line "The wrong kid died!" throughout.

Guest appearances and cameos make the film a hoot with Jack Black as Paul McCartney who clashes with Paul Rudd as John Lennon; Jack White (lead singer of the rock band The White Stripes) plays Elvis Presley; 1960s soul and r'nb group The Temptations, Eddie Vedder, Jackson Browne, Jewel and Lyle Lovett appear as themselves.

The music and songs throughout 'Walk Hard' cleverly reflects the respective decades and pays homage to some of the industry's greatest musicians, while the lyrics are ridiculously funny. Highlights include the duet of Dewey Cox and Darlene Madison Let's Duet, Walk Hard, Hole In My Pants and Beautiful Ride.

'Walk Hard - The Dewey Cox Story' is a film filled with soul/blues and rock 'n roll, witty punchlines aimed at everything about the music industry and brilliant performances from a stellar ensemble cast.

Juno; comedy drama film review

2008-01-26T08:55:00.000+10:30

FOETAL ATTRACTION: (From left) Kaaren de Zilva as the ultrasound technician, Ellen Page as Juno, Olivia Thirlby as Leah and Allison Janney as Brenda in a scene from 'Juno'.
Image: Fox Searchlight Pictures, www.movieweb.com

*Up The Duff For MacGuff by Linh

Following his highly successful satirical drama 'Thank You For Smoking', director Jason Reitman effectively brings Diablo Cody's brilliant screenwriting to cinematic perfection in 'Juno'.

'Juno' tells the story of sixteen year old Juno MacGuff who falls pregnant, considers abortion, opts for adoption and gains an understanding of being a woman despite her tender years.

The film's allure is in Diablo Cody's script which finds humour in the most serious and dire situations. The dialogue is sprinkled with impressive one-liners and phrases that are destined to become part of the everyday contemporary lexicon. The film's fantastic soundtrack adds to the scenes' nuances and reflects the characters' idiosyncrasies.

Ellen Page is exceptional as the impulsive and intelligent Juno MacGuff, whose naïveté and immaturity leads to her pregnancy. Page's portrayal of Juno deserves an Oscar, and she draws you into her character's world and makes you laugh, respect, admire and care about Juno.

Michael Cera is affable as the father of Juno's baby, Paulie Bleeker, but is downplayed and he is absent in the choices and decisions regarding the baby. Yet, this may point to Bleeker's childlike and trusting nature, who is happy to have Juno around on her terms and he would do anything for her.

Allison Janney gives a classy performance as Juno's stepmum Brenda MacGuff, who starts off as the typical overprotective parent with suspicions her children are messing with drugs, alcohol or being expelled from school. The clever script allows Brenda to evolve into a hip and sharp-tongued parent winning approval from Juno and the audience.

JK Simmons is superb as Juno's dad Mac MacGuff, who shows similar character evolution with his dialogue going from square to there. His father and daughter talk with Juno includes the hilarious line "Isn't that what the girls call it these days? Skanky? Skeezy? You know, tore up from the floor up?".

The adoption couple have a more complex character structure as a pair as well as individually.
Jennifer Garner and Jason Bateman play Vanessa and Mark Loring, who at first seem like the happily married couple desperately wanting a child to complete their domestic bliss. Garner exudes plenty of maternal warmth and sincerity as Vanessa who gains a child despite losing a partner.
Jason Bateman's Mark is a child at heart and a man whose rock 'n roll dreams remain unfulfilled. Bateman is charming as Mark, and his character's mutual affection towards Juno reveals a yearning to be young again and live for his music.

Every teenage comedy drama needs a best friend for the hero/heroine and Olivia Thirlby exceeds beyond expectations as Leah. Thirlby gives her character Leah a vibrant and optimistic energy, with enough perkiness to enliven any gloomy situation, especially in helping Juno find adoptive parents, "You should look in the Penny Saver...Yeah, 'Desperately Seeking Spawn'."

The soundtrack to the film is eclectic with indie-pop and pseudo-folk songs which include Sonic Youth, Cat Power, Kimya Dawson and The Kinks. A duet is featured in the film with Ellen Page and Michael Cera performing Anyone Else But You.

*Up the duff - Australian slang meaning pregnant.(www.alldownunder.com)

Sweeney Todd - The Demon Barber of Fleet Street; musical film review

2008-01-24T14:21:00.002+10:30

GORE GALORE: Johnny Depp as Sweeney Todd and Helena Bonham Carter as Mrs Lovett in a scene from 'Sweeney Todd - The Demon Barber of Fleet Street'.
Image: Leah Gallo, Warner Brothers and Dreamworks.

Bleeding Blades by Linh

'Sweeney Todd' is Stephen Sondheim's musical brought to the big screen courtesy of director Tim Burton's eccentricity and the astounding talents of an ensemble cast led by Johnny Depp.

Director Tim Burton has cleverly re-created the dark, dingy and bustling streets of London to set his latest film 'Sweeney Todd - The Demon Barber of Fleet Street', including the costumes and accents befitting the period.

The casting enables the film to be less theatrical with greater emphasis on cinematic qualities, employing actors who can sing rather than singers who can act. Most of the singing sounds rock-pop oriented and some songs have been shortened, while others have been omitted.

Versatile actor Johnny Depp extends his talents to greater lengths in accomplishing the characterisation of wrongly convicted barber Benjamin Barker, who returns as the gothic-looking and greying Sweeney Todd. Johnny Depp's singing expresses the pain and loss in the heart of a ruined man after losing his wife and child, yet is filled with anger and vengeance. Not known for his singing skills, Johnny Depp surprises with his vocal prowess throughout, including his highlights Epiphany and Pretty Women with Alan Rickman.

Although pregnant during the filming of 'Sweeney Todd', Helena Bonham Carter manages to capture the quirkiness and minx-like temperament of Mrs Lovett, physically and vocally. Helena Bonham Carter is breathtaking as she sings and moves in syncopation to Sondheim's music, particularly in The Worst Pies In London. She has previously performed with Depp in 'Corpse Bride' and the pair's playful and extraordinary chemistry is evident onscreen.

Alan Rickman rises to the challenge of villainous heights as Judge Turpin whose self-indulgence and corruption stems Sweeney Todd's thirst for vengeance. Rickman's consummate performance captivates and his ability to draw audiences' reactions of hate and disdain towards his character is exceptional.

Timothy Spall gives a delightfully devious edge to Beadle Bamford, the brutal henchman of Judge Turpin. Spall's Beadle is the mini-me to Alan Rickman's Judge Turpin and Spall presents an equally satisfying performance.

Providing most of the comedic moments in the film is Sacha Baron Cohen as the fraudster Signor Adolfo Pirelli. Cohen's portrayal of Todd's former employee is hysterical as he flashes a cheesy grin while shaving a customer, and hitting a dazzling falsetto note in The Contest.

The impressive supporting cast adds spark to the film with Jamie Campbell Bower as Anthony Hope whose polished tenor voice is sublime in Johanna; as the innocent and reserved Johanna, Jayne Wisener is lovely in voice for Green Finch and Linnet Bird; youngster Edward Sanders gives a brilliant performance as Toby and is definitely one to watch in the future; and Laura Michelle Kelly does well to evoke pity as the Beggarwoman, then educes sadness as Sweeney realises she is his wife Lucy.

The Golden Compass; fantasy film review

2007-12-29T09:04:00.001+10:30

BEARABLE: Dakota Blue Richards and Iorek Byrnison (voiced by Ian McKellen) in a scene from The Golden Compass.
Image: New Line Cinema

In the world of The Golden Compass, the souls of humans live outside their bodies as daemons, and in animal form. The human and daemon pairs are always the opposite sex, bonded by a powerful energy and can communicate telepathically.

The powerful and sinister Magisterium rule the order of everyday life and would destroy anything that undermines their authority, hence the Alethiometer or Golden Compass is a dangerous threat to their existence.

The only person who can read the Alethiometer is Lyra Belacqua, who embarks on an heroic journey to save her best friend and solve the mystery of the disappearing children.

The Over-controversialised Compass by Linh

It is said that a book mustn't be judged by its cover, so it seems that a movie shouldn't be judged by the book it's based upon.

The Golden Compass is the first book of the trilogy in Philip Pullman's children fantasy 'His Dark Materials' and is better seen as a stand alone film despite being an adaptation of the novel.

Director Chris Weitz and the film's producers have agreed to the film's numerous re-writes and re-casting in order to broaden its appeal and water down the so-called anti-religious or pro-atheist elements prominent in the book.

The result is a magnificently imaginative visualisation of the novel, where tales of love, self-sacrifice, triumph of good over evil, and the empowerment of children are brought to the big screen.

Unfortunately, some scenes have been swapped and the ending of the film differs to that of the book, yet the plot remains largely intact.

Newcomer Dakota Blue Richards was chosen from ten thousand young hopefuls who auditioned for the role of Lyra Belacqua in 2006.
In her first acting role, Dakota Blue Richards brings a charming quirkiness to the plucky Lyra, whose presence and curious nature immediately sets her apart from the other child characters.

As the sleek and beautiful Mrs Marisa Coulter, Nicole Kidman is miscast as she purrs her way through some scenes and struggles to turn nasty in others. Despite her fizzled attempts to portray a deeply wicked and heartless monster, Nicole Kidman looks stunning on screen and remains focussed on her character's intentions.

Daniel Craig plays the determined Lord Asriel, Lyra's 'Uncle' and guardian, who believes in the magical 'Dust' which is forbidden and rejected by the Magisterium. Daniel Craig provides some of the great acting moments to lift a few dreary aspects of the film.

Sam Elliott plays Lee Scoresby, the gun-toting, quick witted Texan aeronaut who willingly assists Lyra on her adventure. Sam Elliott looks like he stepped out of a western and into the fantasy world, yet his character is a refreshing contrast to many of the other more darker roles in the film.

The standout performer is not human but a computer generated Polar Ice Bear named Iorek Byrnison and is voiced by Ian McKellen. In a thrilling one on one battle scene, Iorek defeats the King of the Ice Bears, Ragnar Sturlusson (voiced by Ian McShane and named Iorfur Raknison in the book) to rightfully claim the crown.

Other admirable performances include Eva Green's provocative turn as Serafina Pekkala, the Queen of the witches; Tom Courtenay as the wise and caring Farder Coram; Christopher Lee is imposing as the Magisterium's First High Councilor alongside the equally impressive Derek Jacobi playing the Magisterial Emissary; also keep an eye out for Magda Szubanski as the very observant and quiet Mrs Lonsdale.

Some scenes are intensely frightening for younger audiences such as warfare between human and animals and the fight between the Polar Ice Bears. Yet, The Golden Compass is enjoyable and harmless fun concerning a fantasy world of wonderment, free thinking and danger.

Disney's Enchanted - film review

2007-12-26T13:57:00.000+10:30

ENCHANTMENT: A hand drawn animation scene from the film 'Enchanted'. Image: Walt Disney Pictures -
www.sewardstreet.com

Fairytale Fun by Linh

Disney has returned to its roots yet has added a touch of reality to its usual animated magic.

In its latest family film offering, Disney's 'Enchanted' combines comedy and musical animation with live action in a wonderful juxtaposition of fairytale 'happily ever after' and cynical New York style endings.

In its opening scenes, 'Enchanted' encompasses all the typical Disney animated flair which is reminiscent of its classic hand drawn animation films, but the fantasy continues in a different form when the animated characters enter the real world of modern day New York as real people.

Amy Adams stars as the fairytale Princess-to-be, Giselle, whose only wish is to marry the dashing Prince Edward whom she believes is her one true love. Amy Adams' portrayal of Giselle embodies all the Disney heroines including Snow White, Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella, yet she succeeds in making Giselle a uniquely extraordinary character. Amy Adams shines in all her musical numbers, in particular the big production song That's How You Know with a reggae beat and a touch of cheeky brass accompanying her dulcet vocals. In Happy Working Song her vocal expression is euphonious as she dances and sings while cockroaches, pigeons and rats help her clean the house.

Patrick Dempsey of television's 'Grey's Anatomy' fame, provides the romantic interest who is unusually unromantic. Patrick Dempsey's character represents the realities of life, who unflinchingly dismisses fairytales as nonsense until he is touched by Giselle's irresistible charms.

James Marsden plays the vapid and vain Prince Edward with plenty of charm whose chivalry knows no bounds. James Marsden sings with vocal brilliance in the duet True Love's Kiss with Amy Adams, brings romance and passion to That's Amore and is believable as the fairytale Prince.

Susan Sarandon is the venomous and evil Queen Narissa whose only goal is to eliminate any competition to her reign in the Kingdom of Andalasia. Susan Sarandon is deliciously wicked and quite frightening in both animated version and live action as the Queen.

Topping and tailing 'Enchanted' is the actress who has enchanted a generation of film goers with her familiar distinctive vocals - Julie Andrews, whose narration is fittingly eloquent.

Alan Menken's canorous musical composition combined with Stephen Schwartz's well-pitched lyrics make the score of 'Enchanted' an aural pleasure.

'Enchanted' is a brilliant film for the entire family and anyone who likes the magic of Disney with a twist.

MUSICAL MUSINGS: Amy Adams as Giselle and Patrick Dempsey as Robert in a scene from 'Enchanted'.
Image: Walt Disney Pictures -
www.justjared.buzznet.com

Linh in Melbourne - Final day; Best and Worst Things About Melbourne

2007-12-10T10:00:00.000+10:30

Mad About Melbourne by Linh

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in Melbourne and spending the last few days in the Donald Bradman room was a lovely change, but I still love the Penguin room.

I'll be missing Melbourne when I leave and will definitely return next year to see more theatre, live entertainment and visit the Melbourne Aquarium again.

I haven't been to many eateries as I'm not a dedicated foodie but I will attempt to increase my visitations to restaurants and cafes during future trips to Melbourne.

I'll miss The Stork Hotel, and will look out for more theatre when Helen and Paul Madden open up their new theatre venue next year. Hopefully it would be in the CBD and within walking distance.

Best Things About Melbourne:

- Everything in the CBD is within walking distance including the Melbourne Aquarium, the Victorian Arts Centre, the Immigration Museum, Federation Square, Chinatown, Greek Precinct, Queen Victoria Market, Bourke Street Mall.

- There are internet cafes on every street. Some internet cafes are within metres of each other.

- The Skybus Super Shuttle which transfers you from Tullamarine Airport to the Southern Cross Station, where you then board a Skybus Mini Shuttle to transport you to your hotel.

- Choco Churro, the enchanted Spanish doughnut.

- The Victorian Arts Centre which is the equivalent to the Adelaide Festival Centre.

- The Queen Victoria Market which is combination of Adelaide's Central Market and the Brickworks Market.

Worst Things About Melbourne

- The sexual predators who goose, grope and rub up against women and young girls on crowded trams. This would become a problem in Adelaide if Transadelaide decides to remove more seats from public transport instead of getting more trains, trams and buses. (Yes, I was groped during a short trip on a crowded tram).

- The closure of the historic Stork Hotel, not only losing accommodation for tourists but also a wonderful theatre venue.

Linh in Melbourne - Hotel Heaven Part Three ; Bradman; Spanish Doughnut

2007-12-09T09:56:00.000+10:30

Bowled Over by Linh

For the last weekend at The Stork Hotel, I have been lucky enough to get an upgrade of sorts to a different room.

It was sad to leave The Penguin room but exciting to be in a room dedicated to one of cricket's greatest players and an Australian icon.

The Sir Donald Bradman room is The Stork Hotel's tribute to the man who epitomised outstanding excellence not just in sporting pursuits but is also a fine example of professionalism, dedication and sportsmanship for future Australian athletes in all sports.

It's inspiring and wonderful to be in the midst of a truly great Australian.

Spanish Doughnut by Linh

My idea of a conventional doughnut are those voraciously devoured with much haste by Homer Simpson. That is until I came across the enchanting Spanish doughnut stand 'Choco Churro' on the corner of Flinders and Swanston Streets.

Cooked in cholesterol free vegetable oil, without preservatives or artificial colouring and sweeteners, the Churro comes with a variety of flavoursome fillings including chocolate, caramel, custard, jam, orange, lemon, passionfruit and apple and cinnamon.

The lightly textured dough and the crispiness are appealling and the taste is pleasing although slightly chewy. Having only tasted the Choco Churro Loops and Bombon Churro, I would recommend the Spanish doughnut as an alternative to the ringed and circular filled ones.

Unfortunately, Choco Churro is a franchise only found in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and Western Australia but not in South Australia.

Linh in Melbourne - Ali McGregor; jazz concert review

2007-12-08T08:40:00.000+10:30

CABARET QUEEN: Ali McGregor presents some of her favourite jazz songs in 'Jazz Cigarette'.
Image: Damian W Vincenzi

Jazzbird On Song by Linh

Beautiful soprano Ali McGregor has spread her vocal wings to explore and experiment with different styles of singing and music genres, in this case the soulful rhythms of jazz.

Ali admits she wouldn't have considered jazz singing if it weren't for the immense enjoyment she felt following her impromptu performance of jazz songs at a friend's engagement party.

In her one-off jazz concert 'Jazz Cigarette' staged in the world famous Spiegeltent, Ali is joined by a trio of music's finest, namely Ben Winkelman on piano, Ben Hendry on drums and Sam Anning on bass. Their expert musical accompaniment throughout adds exceptional sparkle to Ali's scintillating vocals.

Performing jazz standards from some of her favourite singers including Billie Holiday, Nina Simone and Sarah Vaughan, Ali gives a thrilling and crowd pleasing performance.

Ali shows vocal versatility with deep and rich tones for Georgia On My Mind, silky smooth eloquence in So In Love and an abundance of playful sassiness in Ain't Misbehavin'.

Her rendition of Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered is beguiling and Ali gives an impassioned delivery of Summertime.

Few performers can cross musical boundaries and singer Ali McGregor is a rarity whose vocal talents make her the impressive all-rounder.

Linh in Melbourne - Short and Sweet; theatre

2007-12-07T10:31:00.000+10:30

In 2001, Sydney writer/director Mark Cleary created 'Short and Sweet', a series of theatre performances to showcase the best new writers, actors, directors and independent theatre companies in Australia and the world, also giving new talent an opportunity to surface.

'Short and Sweet' is a competition where applicants present a season of original short plays of ten minutes or less that reflects quality writing, performance and production skills.

Mark Cleary's aim of making theatre more accessible and affordable to a wider audience has been realised as 'Short and Sweet' has become the biggest short play festival in the world.

In 2007, the festival assessors received a staggering 1141 scripts from 12 different countries including Germany, Singapore, Canada and Finland. The Melbourne season of 'Short and Sweet' runs for three weeks with ten plays from the 'Top Thirty' performed four times a week and 'Wildcard' entries to be performed as a one-off during each week.

Bite Size Theatre by Linh

Being in Melbourne for a week, I was fortunate to attend week one of the 'Short and Sweet' competition.

It was refreshing and entertaining to see such diverse talents and skills on display.

However, some of the plays were bordering on ludicrous to sicko, while others were insightful, poignant and humourous.

An exciting aspect of 'Short and Sweet' is audiences who attend the performances can vote for their favourite play, and the winning plays will receive cash from a $20,000 prize pool and other development opportunities for their production.

The standout plays that satisfied my theatrical appetite are:

Michael Goes Home directed by Jae Dee Scott and written by Melbournian Bridgette Burton, is about a young former drug addict who has completed his time in prison and hopes to reunite with his parents.

It's a moving, and engaging human drama with great performances from a cast of four.
Mick Lo Monaco plays the estranged junkie prodigal son, Michael, with gentle charm and warm appeal. Ian Rooney gives a strong performance as the unforgiving and deeply hurt father whose lost faith in his only son. Liz McColl is exceptional as Michael's long suffering mother who is willing to give her son another chance. Devon Lang Wilton gives a subdued performance as Michael's girlfriend Tracey.

Thrilling Hostage Melodrama at High Speeds With Pineapple directed by Heath Miller and written by Adam Hadley, is an hilarious, fast-paced action thriller with fruit, guns and two female hostage takers preparing to kidnap someone.

This is a brilliant take on the Quentin Tarantino films but it's done with a feminine touch. Sheridan Harbridge is superb as the overly excited and eager to please kidnapper-in-training, Gills, whose short term memory creates havoc for her partner in crime and brings on the laughs. Robynne Kelly needs to give her character Junie, more punch and vigour yet her cool as a cucumber approach is an apt contrast to Gill's impromptu displays of lunacy.

Bury Your Goldfish directed by Jonno Katz and written by Michelle Wallace, is a visually beguiling display of hand painted cardboard props accompanying a delightful monologue.

This is a family friendly theatre performance where the colourful props, designed by Justin Caleo, represent physical, emotional and funny elements from the monologue in story-telling and re-enacting events. Evie Katz narrates the entire play, while Emelia Symington Fedy and Nicola Gunn portray the fish Itchy and Scratchy respectively. A highly imaginative and inventive play that suits the short form but may become tiresome if stretched to a full production of two hours.

Linh in Melbourne - Greek Precinct

2007-12-06T14:00:00.000+10:30

Going Grecian by Linh

Melbourne has the largest population of Greeks outside of Greece, yet its precinct in the CBD seems peculiarly small. I was spoilt for choice in the bustling Greek Precinct, walking past the numerous Greek cafe's, restaurants and shops along Lonsdale Street.

I decided on something sugary to satisfy my sweet tooth and chose 'Cafe Medallion', a modest sized restaurant with alfresco dining. All cakes, pastries and hot food were authentically Greek and homemade at an affordable price.

Friendly staff explained what the various sweets contained and the sight of such delectable delicacies caused me to salivate.

The cabinets were filled with traditional Greek sweets including Baklava – spiced almond and filo slice covered in honey, Kataifi – shredded filo and walnut roll soaked in honey and spices, Galatobouriko – egg custard baked in filo with lemon syrup, Kourambiethes – shortbread covered in icing sugar and Amigdalota – almond biscuits.

After much indecision, I settled for Karioka - chocolate slice with walnuts and Ekme - pastry layered with custard and syrup (the Greek equivalent of Vanilla Slice).

One couldn't leave without learning a few Greek words and phrases, so I picked up "Kali Orexi" which is Greek for healthy/good appetite or 'Bon Appetit'!

Linh in Melbourne - Sappho Unravelling; theatre review

2007-12-05T14:45:00.000+10:30

CLASSICISTIC: Jane Montgomery Griffiths wrote and performed the solo stage production Sappho Unravelling. Image:www.storkhotel.com/sappho.htm

Classical Studies lecturer and award winning actress Jane Montgomery Griffiths has written and performed a play which attempts to 'fill in the gaps' of the life and works from the little known Greek lyric poet Sappho.

Sappho lived in the 7th Century BC in Mytilene, on the Greek island of Lesbos, where women had more freedom, and she was probably married with a daughter named Kleis.

Her substantial body of poetry comprised of erotic love poems, religious paeans and celebratory wedding songs. Much of her work was destroyed in the burning of the Library of Alexandria, with only a few fragments surviving the blaze.

Ancient writers, philosophers and poets have praised her prolific work as genius yet condemned her homosexual lifestyle. Her poems have inspired many modern writers, poets and performers who regard her as one of the most important and influential contributors to the arts and literature.

Fragments of Sappho by Linh

Sappho Unravelling is a brilliant and insightful one-woman production with Jane Montgomery Griffiths giving an astounding performance not only as the Greek poet Sappho, but also as the lover Sappho calls Atthis and Sappho's daughter Kleis.

Jane gives an apt narrative presentation where she not only reflects on the way past writers and philosophers have regarded Sappho, but is equally adept at reflecting on Sappho's love affairs, particularly with Atthis.

Upon a simplistic and minimalistic stage, Jane provides the audience with dialogue punctuated with lines from Sappho's poems, and has the charisma to hold the audience's attention for two hours.

Jane's portrayal of the irrepressible Sappho through voice, movement and music, brings you a clearer understanding of what Sappho was like, and how she lived her life through poetry as they were about love, passion and eroticism.

Sappho is dressed in a simple, black dress, and to switch characters, Jane wears a blue raincoat for Atthis. Jane is remarkably convincing as she glides effortlessly from one character to another and she connects their dialogues on an emotional and intellectual level.

Jane shows every side and emotion of Sappho but Atthis is equally compelling as a lover whose departure brings Sappho to a maddening struggle of emotion, which brings the play to it's climax.

Jane's performance deftly moves the play's tone from humour to heartwrenching and from anguish to hope. Music from David Chesworth's 'Badland Suite' effectively underscores Sappho's desires, intentions and her will to love and be loved.
The lighting from last minute fill-in light technician, Kei, casts mysterious shadows around Sappho, perhaps signifying how very little is known about the real Sappho during her life and after her death.

Director Alex Pinder's uncomplicated direction of Sappho Unravelling keeps the focus on Sappho yet magnifies Jane's magnetism and elan in delivering a dramatically charged performance.

Sappho Unravelling is the final production for the Stork Hotel, as the venue is set for demolition after 2007. Producers Paul and Helen Madden are finalising plans to establish a new theatre venue in 2008.

Linh in Melbourne - Melbourne Aquarium

2007-12-04T14:48:00.001+10:30

AQUATIC FUN: Plenty to see and explore in the Southern Hemisphere's largest aquarium exhibition, the Melbourne Aquarium.
Image: Linh - www.linh.chameleon.blogspot.com

Marine Marvels by Linh

The Melbourne Aquarium is one of the most spectacular tourist exhibition I have seen.
The majestic marine life immersed in massive tanks and swimming freely as if in their own natural habitat, is awe-inspiring and mesmerising.

There are all shapes, sizes, species and colours of various fish, mammals and amphibians you could imagine and all on display for your viewing pleasure.

If you're brave enough you could swim with sharks, be photographed with your head inside a life size shark jaw, or relax while you watch the animals being fed.

For those in search of a souvenir to remind them of their underwater adventures, the Aquarium Shop is an ideal stopover.

All animals are well treated, well fed and staff at the Melbourne Aquarium advocate the importance of preserving and protecting all species of marine life.

Image: Linh - www.linh-chameleon.blogspot.com

Image: Linh - www.linh-chameleon.blogspot.com

Image: Linh - www.linh-chameleon.blogspot.com

Image: Linh - www.linh-chameleon.blogspot.com

Image: Linh - www.linh-chameleon.blogspot.com

Image: Linh - www.linh-chameleon.blogspot.com

Image: Linh - www.linh-chameleon.blogspot.com

Linh in Melbourne - Mouthwatering Melbourne; Ume Hana

2007-12-04T14:25:00.000+10:30

APPETISING ASIAN: Ume Hana Restaurant and Cafe on Elizabeth Street.
Image: Linh - www.linh-chameleon.blogspot.com

Yummalicious Ume Hana by Linh

Ume Hana restaurant and cafe on Elizabeth Street serves up a sumptuous feast of Japanese and Korean delicacies and divine dishes for meat lovers and vegetarians.

There are the usual sushi, nori and californian rolls and miso soup, but also some other gastronomic goodies.

A modest sized restaurant and cafe, Ume Hana is decorated with beautifully hand painted fans of all colours, shapes and sizes which hang on the walls.

The food prices are affordable and served in generously large portions.

With friendly staff and excellent customer service, you can relax while watching television (there are two large screen televisions which are wall-mounted) as your meal and drinks are served with a smile.

Having savoured the delightfully scrumptious 'Yakitori Don', number 44 on the menu, I would definitely be heading back for more in the near future.

HHHMMMM: What's on the menu for a carnivorous chameleon?
Image: Linh - www.linh-chameleon.blogspot.com

YAKITORI DON: Chicken and vegetables skewered, steamed rice and salad.
Image: Linh - www.linh-chameleon.blogspot.com

Linh in Melbourne; The Madwoman of Chaillot - theatre review

2007-12-01T11:17:00.000+10:30

JOIE DE VIVRE: Magda Szubanski as Countess Aurelia and Julie Forsyth as Mademoiselle Gabrielle in a scene from The Madwoman of Chaillot.
Image: Jeff Busby.

French playwright Jean Giraudoux was highly optimistic at the time of writing The Madwoman of Chaillot, despite the Nazi occupation of France. Giraudoux hoped his play would be a reminder to the French public of what needed to be preserved in their culture. He intended to stage The Madwoman of Chaillot during the reconstruction days in France after the war but he never saw a performance.
He died of acute uraemia, a type of blood poisoning caused by kidney failure, at the age of sixty one.

Fancifully French by Linh

The Melbourne Theatre Company presents The Madwoman of Chaillot a French play of fantastical proportions at the Arts Centre's Playhouse Theatre.

The story follows the attempts of a Cafe owner to stop greedy oil-hungry capitalists from digging beneath the streets of Paris to line their own pockets without consulting the locals.

Director Simon Phillips manages to re-create the ambience of Parisian life and allows all the charming characters to swirl and move freely throughout their scenes. The opening act, where a waiter serves, a flower seller wanders about and a street performer juggles balls and throws batons, is a wonderful scene of vibrancy and humanity.

Comedienne extraordinaire Magda Szubanski plays the owner of Cafe Chez Francis in Chaillot, and brings believability and assuredness to Countess Aurelia whose eccentric personality earns her the endearing title of Madwoman. Magda Szubanski is in her element as she weaves the wit and wisdom of the play's dialogue with her comedic flair, adding a few moments of spontaneous fun to her role.

Another crowd pleasing performance comes courtesy of Mitchell Butel as the Ragpicker and he also plays the Broker.
Mitchell Butel brings enough arrogance and business smarts to make the Broker a delight even if his character is lacking substance. His portrayal as the Ragpicker begins as a menacing opposition to Countess Aurelia, until he becomes her ally. Mitchell gives an hilarious and enthralling performance as the Ragpicker pretending to be the President in the mock trial scene.

There seems to be four Madwomen in the play, with another three leading ladies of the theatre. Kerry Walker, Julie Forsyth and Sue Ingleton also provide sterling support in double roles.

Kerry Walker is brilliant as the no-nonsense Madame Josephine whose attention to detail earns her respect among her peers. Kerry Walker also plays the Baron, who agrees to the oil digging scheme with great caution.

Julie Forsyth plays the scheming American Prospector to great effect and her portrayal of the dotty and ditzy Mademoiselle Gabrielle is irresistibly funny and captivating.

Sue Ingleton shines as the easily influenced President of France who is always in search of progressing and economically advancing France in the interests of the people as well as himself. Sue is also entertaining as the argumentative and self-indulgent Madame Constance whose imaginary dog, Dickie, is as real to her as Mademoiselle Gabrielle's imaginary friends.

Other notable performances include Melinda Butel as the wholesome and lovely Irma; Sam Hryckow as the deaf/mute juggler is sensational despite only uttering one line in the entire play; Alex Menglet is nicely cast as the Sergeant and Sewerman; Stephen Phillips is a dashing and handsome Pierre who steals the scene even when he's playing dead.

With the star power of Magda Szubanski in the title role, the play was expected to pull more audience numbers as well as plenty of laughs.

However,the twilight performance was riddled with mishaps from the beginning and continued throughout Acts one and two.

Following technical difficulties which delayed the opening for half an hour, there were missed cues, tripping over props, giggling out of character and messed up lines.

All credit to the cast and crew, as they overcame the awkward situations with clever ad-libbing, well-timed quips and excellent improvisations to keep the play on track.

The Madwoman of Chaillot is a highly whimsical comedic fantasy only Giraudoux can conjure, with overly exaggerated situations and beautiful flowing gowns, colourful characters and witty dialogue. Perhaps made even more enjoyable as the cast made the most of unexpected challenges live theatre performance create.

Linh in Melbourne ; Hotel Heaven - part two

2007-12-01T11:02:00.000+10:30

ARRIVAL: Finally, I can unpack some of my luggage.
Image: Linh - www.linh-chameleon.blogspot.com

PLUSH TOUCH: An adorable plush toy penguin hangs from the corner adding playfulness to the room.
Image: Linh - www.linh-chameleon.blogspot.com

Playful Penguin Room by Linh

I immediately loved my hotel room.
Apparently every room in The Stork Hotel has a theme such as Foster's Lager or Ned Kelly, and mine is Little Penguins. All themes in the rooms are related to the history, arts, culture, tourism or environment of Victoria.

It instantly brought to mind the various artistic and literature connections of penguins. For example, Penguin publishers of classic works from plays to novels or The Flying Penguin Productions which is a South Australian creative theatre production company. Also the Adelaide Angry Penguin blog or the villainous Penguin from the television series and movie Batman.

It's a joy to be sharing a room with a unique symbol of artistic greatness and eternal cuteness.

PHOTOGENIC ART: Penguins are a tourist attraction and threatened species due to global warming.

HANGING AROUND: Exploring the room from all angles.
Image: Linh - www.linh-chameleon.blogspot.com

THIRSTY: Quenching my thirst............
.........Anybody for milk?
Images: Linh - www.linh-chameleon.blogspot.com

LITERATE LIZARD: Interesting reading from The Stork Hotel Directory booklet.
Image: Linh - www.linh-chameleon.blogspot.com

Linh in Melbourne ; Hotel Heaven - part one

2007-12-01T10:29:00.000+10:30

HISTORIC HOTEL: The Stork Hotel has links with Ned Kelly and the Kelly Gang, opened in 1855 and shuts its doors at the end of 2007.
Image: Linh - www.linh-chameleon.blogspot.com

Stoked With Stork by Linh

I'm finally in the boutique pleasure of The Stork Hotel on Elizabeth Street.
I particularly love the Stork perched upon the roof as if welcoming all guests to its humble abode.

I chose The Stork Hotel for its proximity to the CBD, affordable accommodation prices and live entertainment - particularly theatre productions.

Helen and Paul Madden run The Stork Hotel enabling guests to enjoy their hospitality as a publican as well as a theatre venue.

Theatre producer Helen Madden has worked tirelessly to bring audiences and hotel guests extraordinarily obscure yet brilliant theatre in an intimate setting. Throughout 2007, Helen has staged classical works and rarely performed productions such as Homer's The Odyssey, Homer's Iliad, and various other pieces from French playwright Albert Camus and currently playing is a one-woman production about the Greek poet Sappho. All the productions feature familiar Australian performers from television, theatre, radio and film such as Helen Morse, Richard Piper and Kate Kendall.

Sadly, all good things must come to an end, and the end is nigh for The Stork Hotel. After thirteen years, the lease is up and the Stork must fly away in search of greener pastures at the end of this year. In it's place would likely be a shopping centre or swish eateries.

However, Helen and Paul will still be around and will continue presenting more theatre in the near future somewhere in Melbourne, and you can bet I'll be there.

Image: Linh - www.linh-chameleon.blogspot.com

The Barber of Seville - comic opera review

2007-11-17T10:40:00.000+10:30

FIGARO'S FROLICS: Elena Belfiore as Rosina and José Carbó as Figaro in rehearsals for 'The Barber of Seville'. Image: Mark Brake.

'The Barber Of Seville/Il barbiere di Siviglia' is a riotous romantic comedy opera by Gioachino Rossini, based on a play by the French playwright Beaumarchais. The comic opera features funny, fast-paced action and fine belcanto singing in two acts.

The plot revolves around the Count Almaviva, and his intentions to marry the rich and beautiful Rosina, who is Dr. Bartolo's young ward. Count Almaviva is in hot pursuit of Rosina but his plans of marrying the little vixen is thwarted as Dr. Bartolo also wants to marry Rosina.

The Count wants Rosina to marry him for his personality and not his title, so he disguises himself as a student named Lindoro. As Lindoro, the Count serenades Rosina under her balcony, but fails to entice her.

The Count encounters his former employee and barber, Figaro, who helps him get into Rosina's residence for a price. Count Almaviva agrees and the two cause much fun and frivolity as the Count plays it for love and Figaro for the money.

Comic Coiffeur by Linh

State Opera of South Australia presents 'The Barber of Seville', its final opera production for 2007, also one of the most colourful and beautifully composed operas from Gioachino Rossini.

'The Barber Of Seville' features a strong cast along with solid support from the State Opera Chorus and sterling orchestral accompaniment from the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra under the musical baton of conductor Tom Woods.

Set in a 1930s health spa for the fashionable and famous, with gloriously elaborate set design and gorgeous costumes by Leon Krasenstein, director John Milson gives a different comedic edge to the popular opera.

Baritone José Carbó is a fabulous Figaro whose agility in movement and voice adds energy and vitality to his aria Largo al factotum della città/Make way for the factotum (Jack of all trades) of the city. José Carbó steals many of the scenes solely due to his clever characterisation of the scheming barber, especially in his letter scene with Rosina and their duet Dunque io son...tu non m'inganni?/Then I'm the one...you're not fooling me?.

Tenor Henry Choo gives a superb performance as the lovestruck Count Almaviva and is vocally graceful in his solo Ecco ridente in cielo/There laughing in the sky, as he woos Rosina. His duet with Rosina Buona sera, mio Signore/Fare you well then, good Signore is a sweet and short moment reminscent of Romeo and Juliet.

Stunning Italian mezzo soprano Elena Belfiore is more than up to the task with a feisty and fiery portrayal of Rosina. Her rendition of Una voce poco fa/A little voice I heard just now followed by Io sono decile/With mild and docile air are awe-inspiring and her vocal pyrotechnics are dazzling.

The supporting cast are sensational with Douglas McNicol giving a commanding performance as the suspicious Dr. Bartolo; Adelaide soprano Deborah Caddy sings her solo where her outpouring of suppressed anguish and frustrations are heartfelt and moving; Stephen Bennett as music teacher Don Basilio has memorable moments including an aria where he gleefully suggests ways of slandering the Count.

'The Barber of Seville' was written without an overture, and the attempts by the orchestra in creating a short introduction to the opera is a disappointment, sounding very tacked on and almost like filler for background changes.

However, it's an enjoyable, hilarious and entertaining comic opera to end the 2007 season for State Opera of SA.

The Game Plan; Charity screening - family film review

2007-10-28T11:34:00.000+10:30

FATHER FIGURE: Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson as Joe Kingman and Madison Pettis as Peyton in a scene from 'The Game Plan'.
Image: Ron Philips/Disney Enterprises.

The charity preview screening of 'The Game Plan' is to support the Starlight Children's Foundation, with all proceeds used to brighten the lives of seriously ill children.

Musclehead Turns Marshmallow by Linh

Former wrestling champion Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson shows he can be soft as a marshmallow on the inside while maintaining his tough exterior with his latest film 'The Game Plan'.

In typical Disney style, 'The Game Plan' consists of the usual formula of children, animals, frazzled adults, and a lesson or two to be learned. There's even American Football, ballet plus shameless product placement and advertising as part of the script.

Dwayne Johnson stars as the self-absorbed, popular and charming quarterback for the Boston Rebels, Joe Kingman, whose well-structured life is thrown off balance when he meets the eight year old daughter he never knew he had. His daughter, Peyton, informs him that her mother is unreachable as she's in Sudan saving lives, so it's his responsibility to care for his daughter. Joe Kingman relunctantly agrees, as he couldn't resist the big, brown innocent eyes of his little girl. Yet she is not as sweet and innocent as he thinks.

Dwayne Johnson is unexpectedly very funny and entertaining to watch as the bachelor learning to be a father. Dwayne Johnson does very well in playing a role against type, a huge change from his other heroic tough guy roles. Joe Kingman is a devoted Elvis Presley fan and fills his life with Elvis memorabilia and actions, which gives Dwayne Johnson the opportunity to sing a stirring rendition of Are You Lonesome Tonight while playing his Elvis Presley labelled guitar.

Madison Pettis is a natural talent as the observant and patient Peyton who sees her father as a challenge but accepts his character flaws with a mature attitude compared to Joe Kingman's childishness and "It's all about me, it's mine" personality. Madison Pettis delivers a very believable performance as the young girl searching for a father figure in Joe Kingman and her ballet scenes with Joe are inspiring.

Kyra Sedgwick is delightfully pushy yet well-meaning as Stella Peck, Joe's very demanding and money-hungry agent whose attempts to secure lucrative sponsorship deals for Joe Kingman are placed in doubt as Joe commits to his Daddy duties. Kyra Sedgwick plays it too straight-faced and serious as she tries to babysit Peyton, but ends up hiring a nanny.

Roselyn Sanchez plays Peyton's ballet teacher, Monique Vasquez whose professionalism and skills at ballet equal Joe Kingman's football playing abilities. Yet the two clash on their first meeting, until she recruits Joe as an integral part of her ballet production. Roselyn Sanchez is dainty and glamourous in her ballet attire, who also provides the strong-willed female mentor Peyton seeks, as a teacher and friend.

'The Game Plan' is a reminder of the importance of family and learning to balance work with family commitments. A thoroughly enjoyable and satisfying two hours of family comedy, much better than other similar Disney films.

The Clockwork Forest; theatre review

2007-10-19T14:31:00.001+09:30

FAMILY FUN: Paul Blackwell as Cuthbert and Cameron Goodall as Morton in scene from The Clockwork Forest.
Image: Windmill Performing Arts

Forest of Fun by Linh

Windmill Performing Arts and Brink Productions have joined creative forces to bring Doug MacLeod's family friendly production The Clockwork Forest to the Dunstan Playhouse.

The story tells of young Morton whose only friends, his wind up animal toys Dog, Cat, Hen and Goat, are blown away during a fierce storm which destroys his house. Morton sets on a journey through the forest to find his friends and discovers more to life than clockwork toy animals. The Clockwork Forest is a play dealing with issues of friendship, love, loss, trust and revenge, and is thoroughly entertaining.

Adelaide actor Cameron Goodall plays the plucky and determined Morton with convincing delivery of lines and childlike agility as he moves through the well-designed props representing a labyrinth of trees in search of his clockwork toys alongside Cuthbert. Cameron Goodall is engaging and likeable playing a child, and at times shows intellectual maturity in contrast to Cuthbert's naivete.

With a career as diverse as the characters he has played, Paul Blackwell is brilliantly hilarious as the amnesiac Cuthbert, who is wandering the forest searching for his own identity and befriending Morton. Paul Blackwell enthralls with his deft hand at comedy, as Cuthbert provides most of the laughs accentuating the humour in the script.

Drama teacher, singer and actor Jacqueline Cook gives a fine performance as Morton's not-so-secret admirer, whose house is also destroyed in the wild storm. Jacqueline Cook's portrayal of the feisty and cunning young Hannah, is a delight to watch, as she provides an interesting distraction for Morton when his eyes stray from his beloved animal toys towards her direction.

The allrounder and multi-talented Kate Box takes on two contrasting yet equally beguiling main characters, as well as a few other minor roles amongst the fantastic ensemble. As the slightly scary but very sexy Spider, Mara, Kate Box wraps the characters and the audience up in her charms while she spins out vengeful words against families. Mara's pet hate is family or anything family related, since her own sisters banished her into the dark and lonely forest due to her misdeeds.
Kate Box gives plenty of quirkiness and neurotic fussiness in her role as Felicia, the artist, whose artistic goal in life is to make everything ugly look beautiful.

Adding some mystery and spookiness to the play, Rory Walker is creepy yet mesmeric as Loki, the intriguing storyteller who travels in a boat along the forest fringes, taking people across the river.

Composer and multi-instrumentalist Stuart Day performs live onstage with his multitude of 'sound tools' including drumsticks, hurdy gurdy and megaphone. Stuart Day brings about the wonders and foreboding sense of danger to the forest as he creates the soundtrack to The Clockwork Forest right before our eyes and ears.

Melbourne writer Doug Macleod is known for his work displaying sharp wit and quirky humour with credits including the television comedy programme Kath And Kim. All which are evident in the beautifully crafted and tightly trimmed script for The Clockwork Forest that appeals to audiences of all ages.

Director Chris Drummond has seamlessly woven sounds, actions, lighting and great performers together for a satisfying journey through a fictional forest.

Death At A Funeral; comedy film review

2007-10-12T14:21:00.000+09:30

PLOTTING: Rupert Graves as Robert and Matthew MacFadyen as Daniel in a scene from 'Death At A Funeral'.
Image: www.filmspot.com/movie/365073/death-at-a-funeral

Dead Set Funny by Linh

Director Frank Oz has brought together the best from the British talent field to create a film of mayhem and hilarious mishaps at a funeral, following Murphy's Law. If anything can go wrong, it will.

The plot follows the son of the deceased patriarch, Daniel, who must keep the funeral arrangements under control, while hiding a terribly embarrassing secret about his father, from family and friends.

Matthew MacFadyen is the aspiring writer Daniel, who has promised his wife, Jane, they'll be moving out of his Mother's house and into their own flat. Matthew MacFadyen is enjoyable to watch as Daniel, from being cool as a cucumber in front of his family and relatives, to a dithering and indecisive accomplice with his brother, as they plot to fight a blackmail attempt.

Rupert Graves plays Robert, Daniel's brother, a smooth talking, best selling author living in New York. Robert's selfishness leads to his brother Daniel always taking responsibility of family affairs while he gallivants across Europe. Rupert Graves gives Robert the charm and wit of a self absorbed writer and is full of ideas to solve the problem of the "accidental death".

Daisy Donovan gives a strong performance as Daniel's cousin Martha, who arrives with her future husband, Simon, hoping to make a good impression on her disapproving father, Victor. Daisy Donovan contributes to the laughs as her character chases her drug-induced fiance throughout the film.

Alan Tudyk stars as Martha's fiance Simon, who is responsible for the majority of the laughs, after his fiancee unknowingly gives him hallucinogens instead of valium to calm his nerves. Alan Tudyk is convincing as a sensible and hardworking lawyer who ends up au naturale on the rooftop.

Peter Dinklage is the mysterious man at the funeral, Peter, who has a secret he plans to reveal unless he is paid his share of the money from the deceased's family.
Peter Dinklage provides more laughs as his character attempts to blackmail the brothers, Daniel and Robert, but finds himself lying inside an occupied coffin.

Other brilliant performances include Andy Nyman as Daniel's hypochondriac friend, Howard who helps to conceal the secret; Peter Vaughan as the impatient and cantankerous Uncle Alfie who's convinced something's going on at the funeral and Kris Marshall as Martha's brother Troy, who is indirectly responsible for the hallucinogens creating chaos for Martha and Simon.

From start to finish, 'Death At A Funeral' has plenty of laugh out loud moments, and it intensifies when the drugs kick in. Stay around for the end credits where bloopers of the main cast feature the actors having a few laughs of their own.

Hairspray; musical and sing along film review

2007-10-07T15:25:00.000+09:30

The ensemble cast of the musical film 'Hairspray'.
Image: www.myspace.com/hairspray

BIG IS BEAUTIFUL: John Travolta as Edna Turnblad and Nikki Blonsky as Tracy Turnblad in a scene from 'Hairspray'. Photo:www.movies.aol.com/movie/hairspray-2007

Dancing Teen Queen by Linh

'Hairspray' is an adaptation of the hit Broadway musical, which in turn is based on the original John Waters' 1988 film 'Hairspray'.
The story tells of a teenager named Tracy Turnblad who, despite her big hair and big build, achieves her dream of dancing on 'The Corny Collins Show' and succeeds in bringing racial integration to television.

Director Adam Shankman and producers have made wise decisions for the musical film, including losing the campiness which is evident in the Broadway stage version. Songs have been dropped and others added to flow with the film's character development and storylines.

Set in Baltimore during the 1960s, although the majority of the scenes were filmed in Toronto as well as Baltimore, the film recaptures the moment in time when racial segregation was the norm yet acceptance of black Americans into the community was growing.

The characters retain their sparkle and freshness with a strong ensemble cast combining experience with youth and versatility. With sing along sessions screening in cinemas, making 'Hairspray' more enjoyable, it may distract from the action on screen.

Newcomer Nikki Blonsky stars as the big haired and big hearted dance sensation Tracy Turnblad, managing to steal every scene with her wide-eyed innocence and luminous smile. Nikki has excellent diction and vocal projection, with exceptional singing throughout. She gives a dreamy quality to I Can Hear The Bells and exudes enthusiasm in Good Morning Baltimore. Nikki may be in her debut film role, yet she feels and looks comfortable onscreen as she performs alongside seasoned actors including John Travolta, Michelle Pfeiffer and Christopher Walken.

Star of musical films 'Grease' and 'Saturday Night Fever', John Travolta wears a fat suit to play the role of Tracy's Mum, Edna Turnblad, whose introverted nature keeps her inside the house for over a decade, until Tracy gently coaxes her to head outdoors. John Travolta is uncannily convincing as a woman who loves her food as much as her family. His singing and dancing abilities are as energetic and smooth as his past performances in musicals. He is brilliant in the duet with Tracy in Welcome To The 60s, manages to tango in the moonlight with Christopher Walken in (You're) Timeless To Me and explodes on screen in a fusion of dance, song and colour in the cast anthem You Can't Stop The Beat.

Following a lengthy absence away from the silver screen, Michelle Pfeiffer returns as glamourous vixen Velma Von Tussle, the Station Manager of WYZT, where 'The Corny Collins Show' is filmed. Michelle Pfeiffer gives a husky voiced but alluring performance with (The Legend Of) Miss Baltimore Crabs. She gives a slightly caricatured performance in her Stage Mother antics of pushing her daughter, Amber, into the spotlight, resulting in her own downfall. Michelle Pfeiffer creates a wonderfully nasty character whose bigoted ways provides contrast to the other characters' attempts to bring Negros "into the mix".

Familiar to numerous fans of 'High School Musical' as Troy Bolton, Zac Efron plays the aspiring dancer and singer Link Larkin, the love interest for Tracy. Extremely high on cuteness factor but low on personality, Link needs a character boost from Zac Efron but it comes too late (near the end) in the film.

Other cast members with noteworthy performances include versatile actor Christopher Walken as Wilbur Turnblad, Tracy's caring and comedic father; Amanda Bynes plays Tracy's lollipop-sucking best friend Penny Pingleton who comes out of her shell when she falls in love with Seaweed; Allison Janney is superb as Penny's ultra-religious and overbearing mother Prudy Pingleton and Queen Latifah is divine yet defiant as 'Motormouth' Maybelle Stubbs whose line "brace yourselves for a whole lotta ugly coming at you from a never ending parade of stupid" sums up the attitudes of many white Americans on racial integration during 1960s Baltimore.

'Hairspray' the musical film is currently screening in selected cinemas, with the sing along sessions exclusive to Palace Nova Cinemas.

Nikki Blonsky and Zac Efron appeared on 'Rove' during their visit to promote 'Hairspray'. Source: YouTube.com/GivesYouWings.

Loving Lloyd Webber; concert review

2007-09-23T22:51:00.000+09:30

Adelaide's Swamp Fairy is an innovative theatre production company, staging musical and cabaret entertainment throughout South Australia.

'Loving Lloyd Webber' is Swamp Fairy's latest offering and following successful performances in regional South Australia, 'Loving Lloyd Webber' comes to Adelaide with Rosanne Hosking, Nic Lock and Rachel McCall providing all the favourites from Andrew Lloyd Webber's best musicals.

Fairy's Musical Magic by Linh

'Loving Lloyd Webber' is definitely for those who love musicals, particulary Andrew Lloyd Webber musical productions.

Staged in the intimate theatrette of The Annex at the Queen's Arms Hotel, 'Loving Lloyd Webber' showcases all the best and favourite musical songs from 'Phantom Of The Opera', 'Sunset Boulevard', 'Cats', 'Jesus Christ Superstar', 'Joseph And His Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat', 'Evita' and 'Song And Dance'.

The cast of three talented Adelaide performers, provides an aural treat as they cover a spectrum of love songs, famous hits and popular duets, trios and solo performances.

Vocal tutor, producer and singer Rosanne Hosking is stunning in a sparkling red evening dress as she sways onstage and is in brilliant voice throughtout. Rosanne is moving and alluring with With One Look, is persuasive and emotional in Don't Cry For Me Argentina. Her heart wrenching performance of Tell Me On A Sunday is stirring.

Rachel McCall is glamourous in glittering white attire as she dances with Nic Lock in Music Of The Night, and provides wonderful backing vocals for Rosanne in Take That Look Off Your Face and Another Suitcase In Another Hall. Her duet with Nic Lock in All I Ask of You is a crowd favourite and her rendition of Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again displays her vocal versatility.

Singer Nic Lock shows diversity and vocal flexibility as he combines some comedy to his performance. The magnificence of his voice is evident in his vocal range tackling all the high notes in Music Of The Night with ease, he displays charm in Any Dream Will Do and adds some cheekiness to Sunset Boulevard.

Set as a mini-concert with recorded music backing, the trio of performers seem comfortable yet underprepared at times. It may be due to clothing mishaps, sound/technical inadequacies or the concert starting fifteen minutes late.

Despite the minor hitches, 'Loving Lloyd Webber' was enjoyable and encouraged audience members to sing along. With so many familiar songs, it was a feel good night of fun entertainment for lovers of musical theatre.

Doubt - theatre review

2007-09-18T18:29:00.000+09:30

COMPELLING: Jennifer Flowers and Christopher Gabardi in a scene from Doubt. Photo: Shane Reid.

Vice and Virtue by Linh

The State Theatre Company of South Australia presents a Sydney Theatre Company production of John Patrick Shanley's Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award winning play Doubt. Set in the Bronx during 1964 in St. Nicholas Catholic Church and School, the four character play deals with a nun's case against a priest she suspects of abusing a child's trust, and her personal conflict between faith and doubt.

The controversial undertones of child abuse and molestation within the church as a subject matter, makes Doubt thought provokingly powerful and leaves the audience doubtful as to who's guilty of anything.

The small ensemble cast superbly handles the text with sophistication and every character shines in this brilliantly crafted play.

Adelaide actress Kate Box portrays the angelic voiced Sister James with much innocence and a trusting nature. She adds passion to Sister James who wishes to connect with her students and convey an enthusiasm in teaching History.

Stage, film and television actor Christopher Gabardi plays the handsome and charming priest, Father Flynn with much charisma and is consistently suave throughout. He delivers Father Flynn's parabolic sermons with some seriousness yet at times is tongue in cheek. His character's personal interest in the Catholic School's only Negro child, Donald Muller, provides the play's catalyst of doubts and allegations.

A graduate of London's Academy of Live and Recorded Arts, Pamela Jikiemi gives a strong and assured performance as Donald's mother. The only character who doesn't harbour any doubts about anyone or anything, Mrs Muller seems unconcerned about Father Flynn's involvement with her son when questioned by Sister Aloysius.

Actor, director and multi-award winner Jennifer Flowers delivers a stunning performance as Sister Aloysius, the Principle of St. Nicholas Catholic School.
Jennifer shows Sister Aloysius' faith and dedication to her Church, while revealing a sharp wit and humour. It's a fascinating creation of how one woman's tiny seed of doubt can blossom into mistrust and hurt upon others, as well as herself.

John Patrick Shanley's script engages the audience without providing any concrete answers and Director Julian Meyrick helps glide the characters smoothly from one scene to another. Doubt leaves the audience wondering if blind faith is enough to bring someone to justice if moral certainty is lacking.

30th Anniversary of Maria Callas' Death

2007-09-16T19:51:00.000+09:30

The Callas Legend Lives On by Linh

On September 16, 1977 opera soprano Maria Callas passed away due to heart failure, in her Paris apartment with her maid and butler by her bedside, aged 53.

Thirty years after her death, Maria Callas' influence remains and her albums continue to sell worldwide.

Maria Callas' appeal lies in her enigmatic presence onstage during her opera career, as well as her extraordinary contribution to the dramatic interpretation of opera. Callas was credited with bringing back the numerous roles in neglected operas such as Norma, Medea, Il Pirata, Anna Bolena and La Sonnambula due to her musical influence and artistic capabilites.

We are fortunate to have many of Maria Callas' recordings, where her phenomenal gift of acting with her voice is clearly evident. However, many of the recordings don't do Callas full justice with standards of past audio technology failing to capture the boundless qualities of her voice.

Callas was capable of moving freely from one vocal category to another - coloratura soprano, dramatic, lyric and in her later years, mezzo-soprano.
Her considerable and rapid weight loss and the desire to sing virtually every voice part, may have contributed to her vocal decline. Critics have believed Callas had damaged her voice by stretching it in this manner. Further controversy followed when she began a nine year love affair with Aristotle Onassis, and her alleged diva antics upsetting colleagues.

Love her or loathe her, Callas is unsurpassed as an operatic artist, musician and performer. Maestro Nicola Rescigno, who conducted many of Callas' recitals and operas, best describes her success, "I think the secret of Maria Callas was her willpower. Maria Callas was born with all sorts of disadvantages. Her voice was not of the most beautiful quality, and still, she made this instrument the most expressive, the most telling, the most true to the music that she interpreted."

Mozart's Cosi Fan Tutte; opera buffa review

2007-09-15T15:48:00.000+09:30

CHEATING PARTNERS:Desiree Frahn, Robert MacFarlane and Lisa Cannizzaro. Photo: Roy Van Der Vegt.

The University of Adelaide's Elder Conservatorium of Music, in association with the Adelaide Centre for the Arts, presents one of Mozart's most light-hearted opera buffa 'Cosi Fan Tutte (All Women Are Like That)'.

The plot revolves around a wager between a bachelor, who believes all women are the same in matters of love, and two young handsome men who believe their fiancees will remain faithful to them. The pair agree to test their maidens' love by pretending to go off to war, then posing as Latin lovers. Meanwhile, the bachelor bribes the ladies' chambermaid in urging the women to find other lovers while their men are away.

The production is directed by Juha Vanharkartano with Carl Crossin as Musical Director, sung in English and staged at the Adelaide University's Little Theatre.

Lovely Ladies Like Those by Linh

Mozart's two act comic opera 'Cosi Fan Tutte (All Women Are Like That)' is musically enchanting and Lorenzo da Ponte's elegantly poetic libretto has been translated to English without losing any of its expressive beauty.

The opera is set in 1967, with the Vietnam War as the backdrop and enhanced with the stage images and minimalistic set, designed by students from the Adelaide Centre of the Arts.

The strong and talented cast of six brings forth their characters' humour and acts of infidelity with much professionalism in an opera with plenty of songs in duets, trios and quintets.

Bass singer Lachlan Scott plays the cynical and jaded bachelor Don Alfonso, with the right amount of smarminess and sings his parts superbly in May The Wind Be Gentle with Dorabella and Fiordiligi, All Women Are Like That with Ferrando and Guglielmo, and his aria Oh, Poor Little Ones, To Wager 100 Sequins on A Woman.

Tenor Robert MacFarlane is dashing and convincing as the young Ferrando who is heart broken when his lovely Dorabella succumbs to the charms of the disguised Guglielmo. Robert is brilliant in voice throughout his arias A Loving Breath, hitting all the incredibly high notes in Ah, I See It, brings warmth and sincerity in his duet In The Embraces with Fiordiligi.

Talented soprano Lisa Cannizzaro performs the role of Fiordiligi with conviction as she portrays her character's struggles to remain faithful to Guglielmo, while enjoying the romantic overtures of the disguised Ferrando. Lisa has brilliant vocal projection, displaying a scintillating singing voice in her parts for You Take The Darker One with Dorabella and her arias Please, My Beloved, Forgive Me and Like A Rock.

Soprano Desiree Frahn is sublime as the fickle Dorabella who easily falls for her sister's fiance, the disguised Guglielmo. In a mezzo-soprano role, Desiree sings mellifluously in her aria Torments Implacable, and her duet I Give You My Heart with Guglielmo.

Baritone Jeremy Tatchell brings charm and arrogance to his character Guglielmo, as he woos the steadfast Fiordiligi while boasting of his manliness. Jeremy is alluring in voice as he sings his arias Don't Be Shy!, and My Ladies, You Do It To So Many.

Soprano Daniela Jedrzejczak provides the most quirkiest and delightful moments as the character Despina, the sisters' chambermaid. Daniela is sensational as her character appears in various diguises as the Doctor and the Marriage Celebrant, while delivering her arias with comic timing and panache in A Fifteen Year Old Woman and In Men, In Soldiers, You Hope For Faithfulness?.

The production engaged the audience with characters Don Alfonso placing his hat and his coat on unsuspecting members of the audience, and Despina passing around confetti as Dorabella and Fiordilgi prepared for the marriage celebrations.

Director Juha Vanhakartano makes the most of the Little Theatre's intimate setting, with the cast members sitting in the aisles or scaling the stairs throughout the performance.

Musical Director Carl Crossin works his magic with Mozart's stylish score as the 'Cosi Fan Tutte Ensemble' gives stellar instrumental support to the singers.

Tenor No Longer In The House

2007-09-06T23:03:00.000+09:30

Operatic Great Departs by Linh

Italian operatic tenor Luciano Pavarotti has succumbed to pancreatic cancer in Italy today at the age of 71.

Pavarotti passed away with his wife, daughters, sister and close friends by his bedside, in his birth town of Modena in Italy.

He was one of the most enigmatic singers who enthralled and excited audiences with his high Cs and magnificent voice. Pavarotti was the most well known of the Three Tenors alongside Placido Domingo and Jose Carreras, and made his final stage appearance in 2006, before undergoing surgery this year.

A funeral will be held for Pavarotti in Modena on Saturday 8, with celebrities expected to attend including U2's Bono and film director Franco Zeffirelli.

Video tribute to Luciano Pavarotti. Source:YouTube.com/Aliceangel77

Lion Pig Lion ; theatre review

2007-08-31T13:33:00.000+09:30

STRIKING A DEAL:Brant Eustice and Michaela Cantwell in a scene from Lion Pig Lion. Photo: Shane Reid.

State Theatre Company of South Australia presents a world premiere of Marty Denniss' latest play Lion Pig Lion, which explores issues of government, corporate and individual accountability and how each interact with one another when staff discover their company may be involved with a young man's death at a water plant.

Bland Bureaucratic Bungles by Linh

Marty Denniss' Lion Pig Lion is inspired by the Bolivian Water Wars of 2000 and tells of the confusion, fear and distrust of individuals whose company is being investigated in relation to a murder.

The plot is convoluted and the dialogue has the potential to be sharp and witty if it wasn't burdened with expletives - the word f*** dominated throughout. The characters are as complex as the plot and the actors' talents seem wasted in a play that is slow-moving and stagnant in parts.

Although frustrating at times, the performances were strong and engaging enough to sustain audience interest until some answers are revealed, yet more questions arise.

Local performer Michaela Cantwell gives a commanding performance as the irrepressible, fast-talking PR guru, Virginia, whose own motives are questioned as she tries to keep everyone calm as the company undergoes another review by the Commissioner.

Stage director, drama teacher and singer/songwriter Brant Eustice is convincing as the wheelchair-bound Archives Manager, Sidney whose first impressions are not as they seem. There's a surprise and shock instore as Sidney reveals more about himself and his involvement with the investigations at the end.

Versatile thespian Carmel Johnson plays the tough-talking security officer Maureen, whose involvement with the murder is not what it seems. Carmel gives the character some light and shade, displaying a hardened exterior to many while showing vulnerability towards a few.

Other cast members' performances which added variety to help lift the play, include Patrick Frost as the soon-to-retire security guard Freddy, Patrick Graham's affable and impressionable Archives Assistant, Richard and Joel McIlroy as the nosey and manipulative Commission officer, Gerard.

Overall, Lion Pig Lion had a plot that takes too long to get started, characters who talk too much about nothing with too many expletives, and an ending which dissatisfies.

To Kill A Mockingbird; theatre review

2007-08-11T18:51:00.000+09:30

FIGHTING PREJUDICE:Shedrick Yarkpai, Isabella Trigatti and David Roach in To Kill A Mockingbird. Photo: David Wilson.

Harper Lee's To Kill A Mockingbird makes its Australian premiere in Adelaide, with Independent Theatre Company staging the theatrical production at the Odeon Theatre.

To Kill A Mockingbird is set in the American town of Maycomb in Alabama during 1934-1935, where a black man, Tom Robinson is accused of raping a white woman, Mayella Ewell. Experienced lawyer Atticus Finch is assigned by the judge to handle Tom's case, with the story told in flashback by Atticus' daughter Scout.

Independent Theatre stages a brilliant production of To Kill A Mockingbird, with a talented ensemble cast under the direction of Rob Croser.

Life's Lessons Learned by Linh

Harper Lee's To Kill A Mockingbird is one literary gem which requires the right mix of talent and professionalism to bring the novel's themes and characters to life. Fortunately, Independent Theatre has succeeded in the challenge of re-creating the author's vision from the page to the stage.

The characters are well cast with each actor giving a solid performance to convey messages corresponding to the play's numerous themes including racial prejudice, loyalty, trust and love.

Local and regular Independent Theatre performer Lyn Wilson plays the mature Jean Louise Finch or Scout, with a narrative role where her monologues interweaves with the performance of her young counterpart. At times, Lyn seems oddly out of place and distant rather than immersed as the character, yet she brings a sense of warmth and reassurance of things to come.

Eleven year old aspiring actor Isabella Trigatti gives a commanding performance as the young Scout or Jean Louise Finch, vividly displaying a child's enquiring mind and bringing a vibrant quality to her delivery.

Young actor Will Cox plays Scout's older brother Jem, and is equally engaging as he brings a charming yet rebellious nature to the pre-pubescent son of local lawyer Atticus Finch.

One of the founding members of Independent Theatre and set designer extraordinaire David Roach, employs all his acting brilliance to do justice to one of literacy's most loved and respected characters. David plays the mild mannered lawyer and father of two children, Atticus Finch, with the unpretentious and noble qualities embodied in his idealistic character. Yet David demonstrates throughout the play, although Atticus is an idealist, he lives in an town and at a time where his visions are not ideal.

Musician, actor and familiar face of Independent Theatre stage productions, Shedrick Yarkpai has the role of accused rapist Tom Robinson. Shedrick plays Tom with gentle and quiet innocence, bringing forth all the play's themes of racial prejudice and inequality during his character's courtroom scenes.

Other cast members also provide outstanding performances including Jamie Black as the drunkard Bob Ewell whose aggressive and unpleasant nature is distrubing, Kate Ward is in fine form as the confused and contemptible Mayella Ewell. Poni Tongun debuts with Independent Theatre as Atticus Finch's caring and wise female servant Calpurnia but also acts as a surrogate parent to the children.

Independent Theatre continues to bring classic literature to the stage, with many quality productions pushing the boundaries of themes which are usually avoided or ignored. Their production of To Kill A Mockingbird will resonate in the minds of audiences just as the novel continues to strike a cord with readers.

A scene from the film To Kill A Mockingbird depicting the lynching attempt of Tom Robinson. Source:YouTube.com/Buddha7575.

By Jeeves; musical theatre review

2007-08-05T23:26:00.001+09:30

'By Jeeves' is based on the Jeeves stories by PG Wodehouse, which writer Alan Ayckbourne and composer Andrew Lloyd Webber have turned into a light-hearted musical comedy.

The musical revolves around the humourous antics of Bertram 'Bertie' Wilberforce Wooster and his male-servant Jeeves. Bertie is about to present a concert to raise funds for the Little Wittam Church Steeple Restoration Fund, when Jeeves informs him that Bertie's banjo has been stolen. Following Jeeves' advice and stage direction, Bertie re-enacts various escapades of his life to entertain the audience. It turns into a play-within-a-play where Bertie agrees to trade identities, commit an unintentional burglary, and frames another for his misdemeanour.

Burnside Players Inc. presents a lively production of 'By Jeeves' featuring melodious songs and a strong ensemble cast.

'By Jeeves' is staged at the Burnside Ballroom until August 11.

By George, Jeeves' Got It by Linh

Director Megan Dansie has given 'By Jeeves' the right amount of polishing to make this musical comedy gem sparkle and shine.

Subtitled as "An Almost Entirely New Musical", minimal alterations were made to accommodate scene and costume changes, which at times slowed down the action. Yet the performances were strong and the singing standards varied.

Tenor vocalist Paul Briske is outstanding as Bertram 'Bertie' Wooster, keeping the comedy on track and the action afloat with his fine acting ability. Paul brings charm and authority to his character. His brilliant vocals in The Hallo Song , with characters Budge and Gussie, By Jeeves with Budge and Bingo and Travel Hopefully with Bingo, highlights the songs' hilarity and infectious melodies.

Experienced actor of many Adelaide theatre productions, Philip Lineton plays Bertie's servant Jeeves, who successfully saves Bertie's bacon in the final act.
Philip effectively gives Jeeves some perfectly dry humour, and provides an impressive counterpart to Bertie's over-emotionalism.

Humanitarian and performer Max Halupka takes on the role of Gussie Fink-Nottle with much enthusiasm and great gusto.
Max displays warmth and sincerity as Gussie who attempts to woo his beloved Madeline, but needs Bertie to trade indenties with him. Max's vocal ability is sound yet requires more vibrancy in the catchy song By Jeeves and better projection in the ensemble number It's A Pig.

Aspiring singer and actor Sera Davey is dainty and virginal in the role of Gussie's love interest Madeline Bassett. Sera's lovely light soprano voice is wonderful in her duet with Bertie in When Love Arrives.

Sassy and versatile performer Cara Brown portrays the demanding and assertive Stephanie 'Stiffy' Byng, in a convincing performance with superb singing. Her duets Love's Maze with Bertie and Half A Moment with Harold 'Pinker' Stinker (Brendan Clare) are well pitched and aurally arousing.

Other notables are Danielle Seal as the larger than life Honoria Glossop whose solo That Was Nearly Us provided one of the funniest comic scenes in the play, Tim Benveniste as the American businessman is wonderfully smug in his scenes and Richard Gruca is excellent as the self-important Sir Watkyn Bassett who's unaware of the shenanigans happening around him.

The scene changes are incorporated as part of the drama and the set is minimalistic. The most interesting prop is Bertie's automobile created from cardboard, wooden chair seats and some scrap metal pieces, which is also easily dismantled.

Musical Director Kate Pope and the Little Wittam Sextet provided fabulous support throughout, in a musical comedy with creativity and wit.

Everything's F*#ked; musical theatre review

2007-08-04T20:41:00.000+09:30

LIFE'S F*#KED UP:Abbie Cardwell, Andre Eikmeier, Lisa Sontag and Alexander Jenkins in 'Everything's F*#ked - the musical'.Photo:Simon Cardwell.

From it's embryonic stages of grant applications and re-writes, writer and composer Sean Peter's 'Everything's F*#ked' has finally come to fruition.
It's a contemporary musical blending romance, comedy and life's complications with urban beats and glorious rock-fused harmonies.

The story tells of four twenty-something's sharing a house, whose lives are exposed as each experience personal turmoils, triumphs and tragedy.
The September 11 Twin Towers attack, the growing fear of Hepatitis C and the emergence of destructive computer viruses further heightens the tensions in the lives of Jack, Red, Adam and Belle, as they each discover although everything's f*#ked, it would still be all right in the end.

'Everything's F*#ked' is a co-production between Inspace and Autopilot Productions and runs until August 18 at the Space Theatre, Adelaide Festival Centre Complex.

Fan-f*#king-tastic by Linh

From the beginning, audiences are warned throughout the song Disclaimer that 'Everything's F*#ked' contains adult themes, sex scenes, nudity, drug use and frequent coarse language, so anyone who's easily offended should leave. Fortunately, no-one did, otherwise they would've missed one of the best Australian rock musicals created.

Composer and writer Sean Peter cleverly wrote music that carried the drama with lyrics that exposed the characters' raw emotions. Every song added something interesting to the characters' situation and revealed their thoughts, fears and hopes.

The talented cast of four are brilliant in their roles, in a musical set during the Spring of 2001. It's 'Rent' the musical meets 'Friends' the television comedy series, as the four share laughs, tears and a home.

Actor and musician Andre Eikmeier plays the hot-headed Jack whose attempts to climb the corporate beanstalk lands him in hot water. Andre is convincing as the fast-talking and quick witted Jack, with a magnificent voice clearly emphasising his character's determination and persistence in Autopilot, while deftly displaying intense fury in Boom Baby Boom.

Adelaide singer, songwriter and actress Abbie Cardwell gives a brilliant performance as Jack's girlfriend Red (suitably nicknamed as she wears plenty of red coloured attire), who's dealing with pressures at work as well as an interfering mother and the death of her Nanna.
Abbie gives a moving delivery of Nan after Red hears of her Nanna's death, and shows poignancy and tenderness during Eulogy.

Rising musical theatre star Lisa Sontag portrays the vivacious couch-potato Belle, who takes sex calls while watching television. Lisa has an exceptional singing voice which is evident in the feel-good duet with Abbie, Good Things and is equally beguiling as Belle tells of her illness in Waiting For The Storm.

A lover of TV, pizza and beer, actor and singer Alexander Jenkins plays Adam, the highly intelligent computer geek with a crush on Belle. Adam even uses her name as his password and is constantly rescuing Jack from computer related disasters.
Alex gives a fine vocal and dramatic performance as Adam when leaving a message for Belle in Adam's Call, and shows a flirtatious side to Adam in Speedhump On The Superhighway.

Director Geoff Crowhurst succeeds in bringing together the actors' song numbers and action without dragging on scenes. He makes the most of Andrew Phillips' superbly designed set that's structured into levels and compartments depicting Jack's office, Red's workdesk, Adam's workspace, Red's bedroom and the loungeroom occupied by Belle.

Sean Peter's musical 'Everything's F*#ked' is thoroughly entertaining with enough thought provoking messages to discuss around the water cooler.

Blues In The Night; cabaret review

2007-08-03T23:54:00.000+09:30

Sheldon Epps' 'Blues In The Night' is a cabaret production featuring a collection of some of the best blues standards ever written. There is no storyline, only four blues singers at different stages of their lives, who each share their stories through fabulous blues and soul ballads. The production is given extra sparkle with dancers adding movement and colour to some of the beautifully sung numbers.

'Blues In The Night' runs until August 11 at the Playford Civic Centre, Elizabeth.

Red Hot Blues by Linh

Northern Light Theatre Company presents a magical evening of blues and soul singing in Sheldon Epps' 'Blues In The Night'.

Featuring four of Adelaide's most talented singers, the cabaret production interweaves emotions and personal stories of three sisters which are interspersed by a male singer.

Musical theatre veteran and crowd favourite, Megan Humphries plays the role of The Lady From The Road, whose songs feature the hardships she's endured with love, misery and hope.
Megan shines as the parasol twirling and dancing damsel in the humourous number Take Me For A Buggy Ride , she gives a stirring performance in Lover Man, and delivers precise comedic timing in the hilarious song Kitchen Man.

Sultry and sexy singer Kira Marie Laverty portrays The Woman Of The World with a twinkle in her eye to match her character's cheeky grin. Kira's songs depict worldly wisdom from a woman who's been there and done that.
Kira exudes sex appeal in It Makes My Love Come Down, gives a beautiful rendition of Lush Life and provides laughs and cheers as she gracefully weaves her way amongst the males in the audience with the flirtatious song Rough And Ready Man.

Versatile vocalist and talented performer Michelle Pearson provides some showstopping moments in her role as The Girl With A Date.
Michelle is impressive as she sang while getting dressed and belting out Take A Chance On Love, she vividly expresses the emotional tenderness in the tearjerker ballad Willow Weep For Me, and is equally mesmerising in Reckless Blues.

The thorn among the roses, musical theatre performer Rod Schultz plays The Man In The Saloon with great gusto and comic flair.
Rod has the dual task of linking each of the women's ballads with his brief song and dance numbers, while belting out a few blues hits throughout.
Highlights from Rod include his wonderful velvety voiced version of Baby Doll, the smooth and suave delivery of Wild Women Don't Have The Blues and I'm Just A Lucky So-And So.

Other highlights include the ensemble numbers Take It Right Back, and the gorgeous harmonies of all four singers during Four Walls (Reprise).

Choreographer Kerreanne Sarti succeeds in ensuring all four dancers added visual interpretation to the songs' stories rather than overshadow the singers.

'Blues In The Night' is a relaxing and entertaining night of beautiful blues ballads to lift your spirits and keeps you humming long after you've left the theatre.

Triple Threat - theatre review

2007-07-21T21:44:00.000+09:30

Brendan Rock, Carmel Johnson and Elena Carapetis in Central Park West. Photo:Matthew Nettheim

State Theatre Company of South Australia continues to produce and present innovative works to Adelaide audiences, with their latest venture 'Triple Threat' at the Dunstan Playhouse.

The production consists of three one-act plays from different playwrights whose works are renowned and popular. Presented with fifteen minute intervals between the plays, the best is left for last with Woody Allen's Central Park West the highlight, following Caryl Churchill's Hot Fudge and opens with Tennessee William's little known Talk To Me Like The Rain And Let Me Listen. It's as though 'Triple Threat' becomes an artistic avalanche rolling downhill, gathering momentum and excitement with each play becoming more entertaining than the previous offering.

Thrice As Nice by Linh

The action and characters in Tennessee Williams' Talk To Me Like The Rain And Let Me Listen reflects the play's title. The mood is dreary, the situation between the characters is bleak and they seem to be lost in their own world rather than engaging in dialogue. The monologues further draw the characters apart despite their close physical proximity to each other.

The play is set in a hotel room where a couple are in love and despair, with Kate Box giving a compelling performance as the woman and Nathan O'Keefe is equally mesmerising as the man. Yet the talented pair and director Netta Yashchin struggle to make the piece rise out of its doldrums and capture the audience's interest. It's a play that goes nowhere...just like raindrops have nowhere to go but down.

Caryl Churchill's Hot Fudge is upbeat with engaging characters, featuring Elena Carapetis as the clever swindler Ruby and Brendan Rock as Colin, her new love interest. They both have secrets to hide and lie to each other to gain trust and approval. Kate Box gives a brilliant display of hurt, jealousy and obsession as Colin's alcholic ex-wife, who exposes Colin as a fraud and liar, before Ruby also confesses. Elena Carapetis' portrayal of Ruby is convincing with a solid interpretation of Ruby's motives. Brendan Rock is relaxed in the role of Colin and plays the character with enough depth and understanding to allow the audience to share in Colin's frustrations. The supporting cast is superb and provides plenty of laughs earlier in the play. Director Geordie Brookman does well to maintain the play's momentum for an interesting yet anti-climatic ending.

The finale of 'Triple Threat' is worth the wait, as Woody Allen's Central Park West proves to be extremely hilarious from beginning to end.
The play is set in an upper class apartment in Central Park West, home to the overly suspicious psychoanalyst Phyllis, who suspects her friend Carol is having an affair with her husband Sam. Little does she and Carol know that Sam is in love with Phyllis' former patient Juliet. Woody Allen's comedic touch and clever quips on marriage, men and dysfunctional love/relationships are well delivered from all in the cast.

Carmel Johnson is the standout performer in Central Park West who portrays Phyllis as a jaded woman yet with a cynical attitude to her husband's bed-hopping habits. Elena Carapetis is stunning in a Marilyn Monroe hair-style and pouty lips, delivering a fine performance as the ditzy friend Carol. Brendan Rock plays Carol's slightly loopy husband Howard, with an eccentric yet gentle nature to great effect. Rob MacPherson plays Phyllis' husband Sam with enough conviction, you'll soon warm to his character's dilemma. Kate Box makes a brief and memorable appearance as Sam's latest lover Juliet, who literally fires the parting shot.

Under Hannah Allert's fine direction, Central Park West had the audience roaring with laughter throughout for an enjoyable and entertaining end to three hours of an eclectic theatre experience.

Disney's High School Musical; musical theatre review

2007-07-15T16:04:00.000+09:30

Promotional photograph from the smash hit film 'High School Musical'.

Teen Sensations by Linh

South Australia's newly formed musical theatre company Creative Souls Theatre does a brilliant job with the Adelaide premiere of Disney's 'High School Musical'.

'High School Musical' is a fresh take on musical elements of 'Grease - the Musical' fused with similar high energy dance sequences. The story follows two young lovers, Troy Bolton the jock and basketball star, and Gabriella Montez the highly intelligent new girl at East High. They share a secret passion to sing and fall in love when they meet at a Karaoke contest. Their attempts to audition for the high school musical 'Juliet and Romeo' are thwarted by envious drama queen Sharpay Evans and other class mates.

Sixteen year old Harry Breese plays the affable and physically flexible Troy, whose duets with Gabriella are showstoppers. Harry shows vocal maturity with fluid musicality in What I've Been Looking For and Start Of Something New, and brings humour and fine athletic abilities during Getcha Head In The Game while simultaneously dancing and bouncing basketballs.

Young performer Lucy Russell has the velvety vocals to play a sweet and determined Gabriella Monez. Lucy successfully conveys her character's emotions through song and movement in the duet I Can't Take My Eyes Off Of You with Troy and for When There Was Me And You.

The standout performer is seventeen year old Emily Clark, who plays the conniving drama queen Sharpay Evans. A member of the Power Funk Squad, the hip hop team for Port Adelaide Football Club, Emily shows star quality on stage as well as on the field. Emily gives a brilliant bitchy edge to Sharpay and belts and bops her way through Bop To The Top with Ryan, and ignites the stage with a combination of funky dance steps and exquisite voice in the jazzy version of What I've Been Looking For also with Ryan.

Multitalented Josh Sanders plays Ryan Evans, the long suffering dance and singing partner to Sharpay and her fraternal twin, with gentle understanding and patience. Ryan is the calming Yin to Sharpay's raging Yang, but they are superb when both talents are combined for their audition duets. Josh's voice has rich tonal qualities and blends well with Emily Clark's to create gorgeous harmonies to rival Troy and Gabriella. When Josh isn't performing on stage, he's directing, producing, designing sets or illuminating the stage with his lighting skills.

Other notable mentions are Linda Ellis who plays extravagantly attired drama teacher Ms Darbus, with passionate overtures for performing arts, Chris Buhagia as Coach Bolton, the competitive and demanding basketball coach, and the wonderful supporting cast provide some laughs throughout.

Director Judy Sampson manages the ensemble cast of 58 teenagers and two adults, with the amazing talents of youths aged from 10 to 20, to create a stellar production consisting of memorable tunes, fabulous costumes and excellent performances.

Choreographer Becci Schembri works her magic to provide the intricate dance sequences and cheerleading routines which complements the production's catchy musical score.

Under the musical direction of Ria Loof, the audience kept the toes tapping and applause continuing following every song and dance scene.

'High School Musical' is a special family treat during the school holidays and is not just for the young, but also for the young at heart.

Cabaret Festival - Licence To Thrill; concert

2007-06-23T13:19:00.000+09:30

'Spicks and Specks' regular Alan Brough (pictured) presents 'Licence To Thrill: The Scores of James Bond'. James Bond certainly scored not only with film-goers but also with the beautiful women onscreen. Alan possesses extensive knowledge and trivia on pop culture and shares the stage with three Bond-Shells Wendy Stapleton, Kaye Tuckerman and Monique Montez.

Thrill Seeker by Linh

Alan Brough is a 6'4" New Zealander who's been a James Bond fan since he was ten years of age. An affable and well-suited human encyclopaedia of music trivia, Alan shares his experiences as a youthful and enthusiastic Bond fan. Everything from eating, drinking and smoking like James Bond is revealed and one can appreciate the influence of Bond on the previous and future generations of film-goers.

Backed up by the 'Cat Scratch Band' under the baton of Musical Director John Thorn, the delectable Bond Beauties deliver songs of the Bond films with energetic and exhilirating panache.

Actress and singer Wendy Stapleton has the strongest and most seductive voice of the trio, giving a passionate and smooth rendition of From Russia With Love, and hits the mark in Nobody Does It Better with her breathy velvety vocals.

Sultry siren Kaye Tuckerman combines sassiness and sophistication in The Man With The Golden Gun, then exudes her feisty flair for fun with Mr Kiss Kiss Bang Bang.

Brilliant belter and young performer Monique Montez shows poise and vocal assurance with For Your Eyes Only , and tackles Thunderball with impressive vocal expression and power.

Individually the Bond-Shells sparkle and shine, but as a trio they display vocal fireworks in their Bond medleys.

'Licence To Thrill: The Scores Of James Bond' celebrates a night of Bond music and memories to satisfy the fans and lovers of action/suspense films, and pays homage to the theme songs that have touched our hearts and permeated our lives.

Mozart's The Impresario...in Vegas; comic opera

2007-06-17T20:01:00.000+09:30

Adelaide sopranos Eleanor Blythman (top) and Jessica Dean.

'The Impresario' (Der Schauspieldirektor) is one of Mozart's rarely peformed operas, and has received different interpretations from previous performance companies. The one act comic opera being staged at The Opera Studio, has a new incarnation courtesy of artistic director Patrick Lim. This sparkling production has a contemporary spin and is set in a 1960s Las Vegas casino. Sung in German without surtitles and with English dialogue.

Double Diva Dilemma by Linh

'The Impresario' is a brilliant effort from artistic director Patrick Lim, who not only created a new setting for the opera, but also a new script in English. In the glitzy and fast paced environment of The Casino Salzburg, Patrick plays the Impresario, Preston Devereaux, whose job is not only to keep the punters happy, but also negotiate with two very difficult and duelling divas.

Patrick Lim is impressively suave with all the right words to charm the ladies into obedience and displays his tenor virtuosity in Care pupille (Beloved Pupil).

Soprano Eleanor Blythman plays the dippy diva with heart, Violet St. Clair, with bemusing naivety yet unyielding persistance. Her voice is richly supple in the beautiful aria Da Schlagt Die Abschiedsstunde (There Strikes The Parting Hour), and with Durch Zartlichkeit Und Schmeicheln (With Tenderness and Coaxing) Eleanor exquisitely produces a precise lightness in the voice that floats upwards with delicate ease.

Playing the flambouyant and no-nonsense diva Chloe La Rue, soprano Jessica Dean is impressive in her delivery of Bester Jungling (Best Youth) displaying a combination of flashy coloratura and dramatic vocal expression. Jessica shows comic charm during her rendition of S'altro Che Lacrime (If You Do Nothing But Cry) with luscious tonal textures in her vocal delivery.

All three voices combine to create an explosion of egos and vocal fireworks in Ich Bin Die Erste Sangerin (I Am The First Singer), with the sopranos competing to out sing each other, while the Impresario attempts to appease both divas.

Musical Director Anthony Hunt appears as Wesley Maxwell giving fine but brief support to the devious Impresario. He is also pianist and conductor to the string quartet which provided brilliant support throughout.

'The Impresario' features some of Mozart's highest soprano coloratura and combines dramatic qualities to the score and comedic charm in the libretto. The cast along with the orchestra under the musical direction of Anthony Hunt, presents another entertaining production.

Cabaret Festival - The Soubrettes; comedy

2007-06-10T21:09:00.000+09:30

In comic opera, the soubrettes are the minor roles of chambermaids and servants, yet Tanya Kyriakou and Alice Carter show star quality as leading ladies in 'The Soubrettes'.

Fantastic Femmes by Linh

The sirens of satire and comedic chaos are back with a new set of songs and stories for this year's Cabaret Festival.

'The Soubrettes' are accompanied by the dashing William Poskitt on piano as they take the audience through an hour of lethal laughs and flirtatious fun.

Tanya Kyriakou plays the demure and dangerous brunette whose rendition of It's Not Easy Being Greek pokes fun at her ethnicity with a touch of poignancy.

Alice Carter shines as the bubbly blonde showing vocal diversity in You'll Do about being desperate to love any man who proposes.

The dynamic divas displayed glorious harmonising in the rebellious song I Wanna Be A Drug Addict and had the audience in fits of laughter with the anti-feminist anthem I Want A Man where Alice played keyboard with her stiletto heels.

Amidst a flurry of frock changes and wigs, the flirtatious pair warmed up the intimate Artspace venue with their bitchy banter, friendly audience participation and wickedly scathing commentaries on current issues and fashion trends.

Take care of your ticker while you watch 'The Soubrettes', as the lovely ladies may steal your heart with their comic charms and charisma.

Cabaret Festival - High Tea With Ida Barr; comedy

2007-06-10T21:08:00.001+09:30

UK comedian, writer and musician Christopher Green returns as a familiar Cabaret Festival favourite to share more raunchy rhymes and hilarious anecdotes of the golden days at London's music hall in High Tea With Ida Barr.

More Than Tea And Scones by Linh

Following last year's successful Bingo shows, Miss Ida Barr invites Adelaideans to a free tea session flavoured with gangsta rap and hip hop numbers.

The Lyrics Lounge was full to capacity as crowds queued at the doors, while it was standing room only if you were lucky to get inside.

High Tea With Ida Barr is more than a leisurely sit-down-and-chat-over-tea experience, but a rigourous rapping and rhyming routine with Miss Ida Barr.

The veteran music hall pensioner shows she's still got the grooves to go with her moves as she struts onstage to original lyrics and music. You'll soon see that Ida's hip has enough hop to rival Missy Elliot and Beyonce!

Popular rap artists, Hollywood film actors and even local politics fail to escape the quick wit and lightning lips of Miss Ida Barr as she rocks through her rap medleys.

High Tea With Ida Barr shows how even seniors can get down and shake their groove thang along with the best of booty shakers. Miss Ida Barr reveals how 'bottoms up' is more than a drinking term, and even persuades you to do the 'Hokey Cokey'. However, it's also a fantastic opportunity for the talented Christopher Green to show how he can have fun in a frock while entertaining an excited Cabaret Festival crowd.

The King And I; musical theatre review

2007-05-17T08:44:00.000+09:30

Rodgers and Hammerstein's 'The King and I' is an adaptation of Margaret Langdon's novel 'Anna and the King of Siam', and is a unique musical where there is no love/romance between the two leading characters, ending with the death of a hero.

It tells the story of Anna Leonowens, an English widow, employed by the King of Siam to tutor his children and many wives. With her son Louis in tow, Anna arrives at the Royal Palace in Bangkok to discover the King has not kept his promise of providing her with a separate house away from the Palace. She is witness to the arival of the King's latest 'gift' of a new wife named Tuptim and is overwhelmed by the number of children she is to tutor. Anna and the King clash on various issues but find some common ground when she resolves one of the King's political dilemmas. Gradually, they develop an understanding and respect beyond cultural and social boundaries. Their attachment to each other is of mutual respect rather than love. The sub-plot provides the romantic element of the musical, with Tuptim falling in love with Lun Tha, a Burmese emissary, and together they attempt to elope but are caught and killed under the King's orders.

Siam Surprise by Linh

The Metropolitan Musical Theatre Company of SA has enlivened 'The King and I' and under the direction of Hermonn, presents a production featuring gorgeous melodies with affable characters in exquisite Eastern silks and European gowns.

Talented music and drama teacher, Trish Spence shows flair in her portrayal of the unflappable Anna Leonowens and shines in her scenes with the children. Trish's lovely voice possesses tonal warmth as she reminisces in Hello,Young Lovers, she conveys good English humour in Getting To Know You and swirls gracefully to the joyous Shall We Dance?. Her highlight song Shall I Tell You What I Think Of You? shows her ranting and raging in stark contrast to her usual calmness.

Always the willing participant in theatre, Barbara Henshaw's performance skills in various plays and musicals have been enjoyed by many. Her characterisation of the King's head wife, Lady Thiang is played to great effect. Barbara gives Lady Thiang some vocal light and shade as she sings with the other wives in Western People Funny and as the well composed and wise woman in the King's Palace whose understanding of the King's stubborn nature is conveyed in the stirring Something Wonderful .

Young and aspiring performer, Emily Schwab plays the King's 'gift' and new wife Tuptim with such sweetness and sorrow, it's difficult not to feel moved by her predicament. She sang beautifully with Gordon Combes' Lun Tha for We Kiss In A Shadow, and again with Greg in I Have Dreamed.

Multi-talented allrounder Greg Hart is the stand out performer as the overbearing, temperamental King of Siam. Greg exudes the childishness of a spoilt heir yet displays an endearing charm behind his awe-inspiring exterior. Greg carried the King's majestic and imposing character with aplomb, while providing humourous moments in A Puzzlement and Song Of The King.

The chorus of wives and children gave brilliant support to the leads and their presence was a constant reminder of the King's influence and absolute power in a country ready to connect with the West.

Praise goes to the costume co-ordinators Leonie Osborn and Kerry O'Donohue, especially to costume makers Hermonn, Cathy Maxwell and Jill Dall for the gorgeous silk dresses featuring intricate designs and every colour of the rainbow. Choreographer Carmel Vistoli performed wonders, making the dance sequences beguiling and mesmerising.

'The King And I' is an enduring and entertaining musical with an underlying message of globalisation and womens' issues. Rodgers and Hammerstein has created a story with a dignified and lavish picture of the East, without the cliches connected with identifying the Orient as seen in most musicals.

The Importance of Being Earnest - theatre review

2007-05-08T18:59:00.000+09:30

The University of Adelaide Theatre Guild presents one of Oscar Wilde's witty, charming and complex social plays, with a talented cast.

The plot grows complex yet is enjoyable and culminates in further frustrations for a fitting finale.

The plot follows Jack who resides in the country yet calls himself Earnest while in the city and his friend from the city, Algernon, creates an invalid friend whom he uses as an excuse to avoid tiresome social obligations. Jack loves Gwendolyn who is Algernon's cousin and Algernon loves Jack's young ward, Cecily. Complications arise as both men pose as Earnest in order to marry their beloved.

Wilde About Earnest by Linh

The Importance of Being Earnest requires brilliant comic timing, masterful diction and a skilled interpretation to accurately convey Wilde's satirical social comedy of deception, love and identity.

Under the direction of June Barnes and Ann Weaver (making her directorial debut), The Importance of Being Earnest manages to combine all of the above to revive a favourite for regular theatre-goers while introducing a sparkling production to a new generation.

The ensemble cast is adept and comfortable in their roles giving impeccable performances throughout, with a few cast members working with the Theatre Guild for the first time.

Experienced stage actress Pam O'Grady makes her first appearance with the Theatre Guild as the irrepressible Lady Bracknell whose over-exaggerated aristocratic flair is played to the hilt. O'Grady gives Lady Bracknell the right amount of self-importance and snobbery all too prevalent in the aristocracy of the times and works her charms on the unsuspecting Jack Worthing.

Self confessed slave to theatre, David Thring, gives the gawkish yet affable Jack Worthing some spark and charm as the country boy who discovers his true identity while in pursuit of his beloved Gwendolyn. David's clarity in diction and nuances of expression superbly colours his character's foppishness.

Versatile performer Marieka Hambledon makes her Theatre Guild debut as the Victorian debutante Gwendolyn. Marieka brings out the headstrong vixen in Gwendolyn during scenes with Lady Bracknell and displays classy cattiness in her tea and insults scene with Cecily. Her clear diction, accent and hilarious hoity toity mannerisms makes Marieka a fine Gwendolyn and favourite among the audience.

Thrusting himself back onto the boards is Andrew Lawlor who is relishing the role of suave and irritatingly charming Algernon. Making general conversations with clever quips such as " the truth is rarely pure and never simple" Algernon exemplifies aristocratic hypocrisy and silliness. Andrew's simplistic matter of fact style in characterisation and delivery is consistent throughout, yet with more variety he would add more depth and intrigue to the deceptive Algernon.

After four years in Sydney, Abby Coleman returns to Adelaide with her Theatre Guild debut as Jack's 18 year old ward Cecily. Abby requires more work on her diction yet her performance as the virginal and wickedly enticing Cecily is delightful.

A wonderful support cast gave equally solid performances including Lindy LeCornu as Cecily's governess, Miss Prism, who is the key to unlocking the intricate plot. Gary George is the jovial Dr Chasuble who is intent on unlocking Miss Prism's heart. Even the servants play a part in the plot with Norman Athersmith as Jack's servant and John Sharpe's role as Algernon's servant, in coughing discreetly to announce a person's arrival or seemingly bemused at the behaviour of the upper class.

The Importance of Being Earnest is well staged in the intimate atmosphere of The Little Theatre, with Ole Wiebkin's stage/set design beautifully reflecting Wilde's aesthetic spirit of poetry, music , drama and visual arts.

The costumes are lavish with rich colours of burgundy for Lady Bracknell, blue, purple and white for Gwendolyn and Cecily in deep peach, with the aristocrats' attire complimented with dazzling jewels and stylish hats.

In earnest, this is a thoroughly entertaining production of Oscar Wilde's wittiest and satirical of plays, which reminds us all that the pun can be elevated to high art.

Let's Go.... To Sexpo!

2007-05-06T10:53:00.000+09:30

The city of churches welcomed the arrival of the 2007 Club X Sexpo, with hundreds of eager and curious Adelaideans flocking to the Wayville Showgrounds for a taste, touch, smell, listen and look at the latest in adult health, sexuality and lifestyle products. There's something for everyone (aged over 18) at Sexpo.

Sexpo-a-go-go by Linh

According to the promotional material, Club X Sexpo is back in Adelaide with "bigger, better and bolder" exhibitions and performances than ever.
There's definitely more to Sexpo than lubricants, condoms and vibrators. This year we're presented with less of a pornographic approach and more of an adult edu-info-tainment style.

Exhibitions and displays included AIDS/sexual awareness groups such as Clioraid, the EROS Foundation and the SA Sex Industry Network. These groups provide vital services, support and information for sex industry workers as well as the heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, transgender, and intersexual in the community.

Amongst the titillating paraphernalia ranging from subtle to explicit, are the diverse offerings of love potions and energy/libido boosting serums. The adventurous queued up for a free taste test, while the sceptical poured doubt on the details of pamphlets/flyers and 'customer satisfaction quotes' on posters.

The most popular aphrodisiac were the chocolates, shaped as penises, breasts, full lips and voluptuous women. It was the only exhibition stand which featured chocolate and proved to be a winner.

At the various exhibitions selling sex toys, a wheelchair bound gentleman gingerly fondled a silicone anal plug as the exhibition assistant explained its "incredible ability to boost pleasure for sensational anal sex...", and young women 'test drive' a vibrating finger massager (clitoral stimulator) by placing it on their breasts, wrist, neck or other erogenous locations.

The main attractions were the performances on stage including shows from amateur strippers to the professional female strip artists. If you happen to be in the front row while the male dancers from 'Badboys Australia' are performing, you get a free calendar.

After 6pm, the atmosphere and action at Sexpo heats up on the main stage, with Miss Nude Australia, Arianna, showing off her physical talents and attributes, and a stunning, eye-popping display of penile art from the Pricasso/Badboys Australia.

Sexpo not only opens your mind to different manners of sexual pleasure but also opens your eyes to see sex as less taboo and more liberating.

Parliament House Open Day; historical/political special occasion

2007-04-22T13:06:00.000+09:30

On the 22nd of April in 1857, The Parliament of South Australia sat for the first time.

Today marks the 150th anniversary of responsible governance in South Australia, and the Parliament of South Australia welcomes the public for an Open Day.
Members of the public are given free entry to access various rooms throughout Parliament House, including its chambers, parlour lounges and library.

The Other Pride Of South Australia by Linh

Many South Australians are Adelaide Crows or Port Adelaide proud, but we should also consider the other pride of South Australia. Namely, our State Parliament House.

For 150 years, South Australia has flourished politically, economically and socially, making us a very enviable Festival State.

On its 150th anniversary, State Parliament has opened the doors of Parliament House, allowing the general public to experience the beauty, grandeur and history of the various rooms where some of our state politicians spend much of their time.

There's the House of Assembly also called the Lower House, where you can sit in the seats of Premier Mike Rann, Treasurer Kevin Foley or Opposition leader Martin Hamilton-Smith. The Speaker's Chair is the only seat not permitted for public access. Upon the green carpet are the South Australian motifs of grapes, wheat sheaves and wattle. Adding to the traditional touch is the 'blood or sword line' which runs in front of the Treasury bench and the Opposition front bench. It's to keep the members of Parliament from crossing over the floor of the other party.

A favourite with the public is the Legislative Council or Upper House, sometimes called the 'House of Review'. Its beautiful furniture made of Queensland maple is stunning, the red carpet featuring the Sturt Desert Pea enriches the atmosphere and the lighting and acoustic properties are superb. Most impressive is the President's chair (President is the equivalent to the Lower House's Speaker), which is made of English Oak and carved with Gothic decorations and the seat is covered in red velvet. The President's Chair is also closed to the public.

A personal favourite is the Parliamentary Library, where all its three metre high wooden book shelves are filled with many rare and essential hard covered books/reports/journals/encyclopaedias et cetera, each with a gold embossed seal of identification on the front cover. The erudite would certainly be in their element, surrounded with a myriad of historical literature on every subject imaginable.

Some precious yet quirky literary gems I found while trawling the shelves include Debrett's Etiquette and Modern Manners, Oscar Wilde - A Biography by H. Montgomery Hyde, Dynasty - A Legend, A Family and the Port Adelaide Football Club by Fos Williams (football legend) and Michelangelo Rucci (sports writer at 'The Advertiser'), Keith Dunstan's Ratbags featuring a foreword by Barry Humphries and the book with over 550 subjects to help you entertain, insult and amuse any audience... 5600 Jokes For All Occasions by Mildred Meiers and Jack Knapp.

The centrepiece of the library is the Terrestrial Globe, which stands one metre high and was made in London in 1854. The Globe was ordered by the then Legislative Council Library in 1854 and represented the state of the art mid-nineteenth century educational technology.

Another interesting relic is a copy of the very first edition of 'The Advertiser', then known as 'The South Australian Advertiser', Volume One, edition one on Monday 12th July 1858. It was broadsheet size, all black and white, with classified line ads and no images.

The experience of touring Parliament House can also be enjoyed on days when Parliament is not sitting, with a Tour Guide or Parliamentary Officer. Visitors are also permitted to sit in the Galleries during 'Question Time' on sitting days. For more information, click HERE.

Charity Concert - Six Appeal; review

2007-04-16T14:35:00.000+09:30

'Six Appeal' is the final event of the MS Society's recently launched fundraising programme called the 'MS Challenge' which featured a series of events over the last five months.

Adelaide singer Melissa Hann is participating in the 'MS Challenge' and will walk the Great Wall of China and climb the 5,500 steps to the top of Mount Huashan. Melissa hopes the proceeds from 'Six Appeal' will help her reach the target sum of $5,500, with all proceeds for people living with Multiple Scolerosis.

'Six Appeal' featured six talented South Australian singers and comprised of cabaret, musical theatre and contemporary works, starring Melissa Hann, Michelle Pearson, Jesse Frick, Mark Oates and Rod Schultz, with James Clark on piano.

Appealing Sextet by Linh

With so much talent on stage, it was difficult to pick a standout performer in the brilliant charity concert 'Six Appeal'.

Talented soprano Melissa Hann presented and performed, showing superb comic timing and character expression with her rendition of The Girl in 14G. She gave another hilarious performance as Glinda with Popular from the musical 'Wicked', and in the duet with Mark Oates I'd Give It All To You from 'Songs For A New World', Melissa conveyed the emotions of the lyrics with intricate vocalisation and Mark radiated the romantic yearning of the song in his delivery.

A familiar and regular performer in many theatre and musical productions, Mark Oates showed his versatility in songs from contemporary to the traditional. Mark showed vocal vigour in Fred Jones, he brings forth emotional intensity in If I Didn't Believe In You from 'The Last Five Years', also joining Rod Schultz and Jesse Frick for the slow and moving ballad On The Willows from 'Godspell', creating fine harmonies and impressive interpretation of the music.

Barista extraordinaire Rod Schultz shows he can serve up more than the perfect cup of coffee, with his contribution to the concert. In the opening song of the musical 'Parade', The Old Red Hills Of Home Rod brought out the intelligence in the lyrics and poignancy of the music through voice and a gripping performance. His highlight was the drinking song Guv'ment from 'Big River' with his dark, mellifluous tones and Rod's comedic portrayal of Pap Finn earned plenty of laughs.

Best known for her brilliant performance as Eponine in 'Les Miserables' featuring Normie Rowe as Valjean, Michelle Pearson gave a stirling performance as Cathy in Still Hurting from 'The Last Five Years', she captivated and revealed a more animated side with Defying Gravity from 'Wicked', and gives a vocally polished performance of 'Sunset Boulevard' s As If We Never Said Goodbye.

Jesse Frick is one to watch as the talented singer crooned his way throughout the concert, sending some female audience members swooning. Jesse opened the concert with the first two songs, giving a vocally textured touch to These Are The Days, followed by more vocal magnificence in the jazzy What A Difference A Day Makes.

Ensemble numbers included the moving anthem from 'Rent' Seasons Of Love and the upbeat closing song Heart And Music.

The concert wouldn't be complete without the talented and accomplished pianist James Clark, who provided stellar accompaniment throughout.

Recitals Australia: concert 5 - Margaret Lambert and Peter Schodde; review

2007-04-11T21:32:00.000+09:30

The second performance of concert five for Recitals Australia was a magnificent display of musicianship from two very experienced pianists.

Margaret Lambert worked for many years in Melbourne, but now is a familiar and favourite accompanist in Adelaide.

Recitals Australia Treasurer Peter Schodde met Margaret Lambert at Adelaide Teachers' College, and they both followed their careers, with Peter in Science and Margaret in Music.

Piano Duo Magnifico by Linh

In an astounding performance of Mozart and Brahms piano duets, pianists Margaret Lambert and Peter Schodde combined their skills to present a glorious offering of musical splendour.

In Mozart's 'Sonata in D For Two Pianos' which comprised of three movements, Peter and Margaret displayed impeccable piano virtuosity throughout.
Margaret and Peter conveyed the brightness and happiness in Allegro Con Spirito with deft finger work, they generated graceful melodies to instil a feeling of undisturbed tranquility in Andante and the dynamic duo brought changing moods and varying shades of colours to the third movement Allegro Molto.

The talented pair continued to impress with Brahms' Variations on a Theme by Hadyn Op.56b. The delicate ringing of the pianos combined, exude intricate harmonies and rhythms, while expressing the themes of beauty, balance and bliss.

Margaret and Peter are each talented pianists, and they create fireworks when they share the stage. Two great musical minds working two masterful pair of hands bringing alive the magic of Mozart and the beauty of Brahms.

Recitals Australia: concert 5 - Andrey Lebedev and Laura Pierce; review

2007-04-11T21:24:00.000+09:30

After a busy few weeks of Fringe fun, it's wonderful to re-acquaint with the talented performers appearing at the Pilgrim Church for Recitals Australia concerts.

Concert five was a delightful double dose of musical pairings, both instrumental.

The first performance featured talented music students Laura Pierce and Andrey Lebedev from Marryatville High School who have been performing together since 2005.

Laura is a flautist and performed alongside Andrey on guitar in an enjoyable Latin American and Australian showcase including works by Jacques Ibert, Richard Charlton and Maximo Diego Pujol.

Estupenda Musica by Linh

Dressed to reflect the style of music they performed, flautist Laura Pierce and guitarist Andrey Lebedev delivered a fine concert of sizzling Latin American compositions with some Australian flavour added to the mix.

In Jacques Ibert's sprightly Entr'acte, Laura displays technical brilliance and fluidity in her performance, with Andrey equally impressive on guitar with chord sequences typical of Spanish guitar playing.

Following Ibert's melodious composition, was Australian composer and guitarist Richard Charlton's Sonata ? with movements Allegro, Andante and Allegro Animato.

Laura and Andrey immersed themselves in the wondrous harmonies of Charlton's work, and enticed the audience with sweet seductive unison.

Completing their thematic concert, was the Suite Buenos Aires by Maximo Diego Pujol in which Andrey truly shines in his artistry, capturing every nuance in his interpretation of Pujol's music. Coupled with Laura's alluring and airy tones on flute, the performance was a heavenly sound from two very delicate instruments.

Despite their tender years, Laura and Andrey performed with high professionalism and virtuosity in an engaging and enjoyable journey of Spanish influence and charm.

Cancer Takes Another Life

2007-04-11T09:50:00.000+09:30

Sad news....

One of Channel Nine's best and most experienced newsreaders, has died of cancer last night.

Kevin Crease was surrounded by family at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, as he lost his fight with cancer, passing away peacefully at the age of 70.

A consummate and professional broadcaster for nearly 50 years, Crease was an Adelaide icon and a favourite with viewers.

He will be sorely missed, Vale.

For more details CLICK HERE.

J S Bach's St. John Passion review

2007-04-07T20:12:00.000+09:30

Although Bach's St. John Passion was not a concert performance, it possessed the same high standard of singing and orchestral brilliance.

All those attending entered in silence, watched and left in silence without any applause before, during or after the performance.

The Combined Choirs of St Peter's Cathedral and Elder Conservatorium, including the Elder Conservatorium Chamber Orchestra provided superb support to Robert MacFarlane, Keith Hempton and Lachlan Scott in featured roles.

Einfach Klasse! by Linh

It was standing room only in the packed St Peter's Cathedral, as Reverend Steven Odgen welcomed and thanked all for attending the special meditative and reflective event for Good Friday.

JS Bach's St. John Passion was performed in German with tenor Robert MacFarlane in one of his biggest and longest singing roles as Evangelista. Robert has a magnificence in vocal quality and expression to match the recitative nature of the performance. Bass Keith Hempton was moving and defiant as Christus (Jesus), while singing in fine timbre and precision. Another brilliant bass Lachlan Scott as Pilatus, has the ability to colour the text with his deep dark vocal tones adding authority and something sinister to the character.

The combined choirs brought passion and excitement to the hymns and arias, reflecting on the dramatic scenes, while the orchestra, under the baton of musical director Carl Crossin, brought to life the complexity, sophistication and poetic imagery of Bach's music.

An impressive performance of Bach's St. John Passion, was initially composed to allow the audience to identify with Jesus' suffering and sacrifice through music, yet it is enjoyable on a non-spiritual level.

Holy Week; Tuesday; Meditative Recital

2007-04-04T13:35:00.000+09:30

As part of the 2007 Cathedral Series, the St Peter's Cathedral presented a series of public performances for Holy Week.

Holy Tuesday's Meditative Recital featured the Gregorian Choir of St Peter's Cathedral, soprano Jessica Dean and Anthony Hunt in the dual role of Director and accompanist on organ.

It was a performance of silent observation and among the Johann Sebastian Bach piano/organ repertoire were Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Giulio Caccini.

You enter and sit in silence, there is to be no applause before, during or after the performance and you leave in silence.

En-Chanting Meditative Recital by Linh

Gregorian chant may not appeal to some but those who atttended the Tuesday's Meditative Recital at St Peter's Cathedral, certainly were moved by The Gregorian Choir's stirring and inspirational performance.

The chants performed were parts of the Proper Mass including Introit, Gradual, Offertory and Communion.

The unaccompanied monophonic chants continue to bring a profound sense of mystery, whether it's listened to within a liturgical situation or not. The sheer beauty of the male voice in plainsong is an aural pleasure and to hear it performed live is sublime.

Alternating throughout the performance of Gregorian chants, lovely soprano Jessica Dean delivered Ach, Ich Fuhls from Mozart's 'Die Zauberflote (The Magic Flute' in an expressive and rich tone, before her beautifully hypnotic rendition of Ave Maria (Hail Mary) by Giulio Caccini.

Director and accompanist Anthony Hunt on organ had the audience spellbound with each of his JS Bach repertory including the beautiful Baroque chorale prelude O Mensch, Bewein Dein Sunde Gross, Fantasia and Fugue in C minor and the enlightening Fantasia on Jesu Meine Freude.

The recital's music, chanting and singing takes you into the spirit of reflection as you are imbued with a sense of deep serenity and contentment.

Bach Holy Week

2007-04-02T17:52:00.000+09:30

I've managed to wangle a few days off work to see some concerts at St Peter's Cathedral during Holy Week.

It should be exciting, especially Bach's St John Passion featuring Robert MacFarlane, Keith Hempton and Lachlan Scott on Good Friday.

Farewell Fringe, until next year....

2007-04-01T15:36:00.000+09:30

The 2007 Adelaide Fringe Festival has come to an end, but it will return with more of the best artists, musicians, comedians and performers next year.

Adelaide won't have long to wait until the festivities and fun starts again with the Adelaide Cabaret Festival running from June 8-23.

South Australia is truly the Festive State, yet it's a pity the state's biggest and best arts/cultural/sporting events aren't evenly spread throughout the year.

I'm really looking forward to the Cabaret Festival....