Back by popular demand, the Adelaide Festival Centre presents World War Bob by Mark Trevorrow and Bill Harding from 27 – 30 April in Her Majesty’s Theatre.
A timely season that opens the week of Anzac Day, the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australia and New Zealand forces during the first World War.
Paying tribute to the troop shows of yesteryear Bob Downe and friends explore the role of popular song in wartime – for morale, diversion and propaganda. Bob’s unique blend of troop show, revue and music hall draws inspiration from a century and a half of wars involving Australia and Australian soldiers, from the 1850s to the present day: from the Crimea to Iraq, with long deployments in World Wars One & Two!
Featuring war time favourites such as It’s a Long Way to Tipperary, Pack Up Your Troubles, Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy and War (What is it Good For?).
Journalist, comedian, actor and broadcaster Mark Trevorrow has spent 20 years of life routinely being called “Bob,” but he doesn’t think that’s strange at all. Mark is the creator of iconic Australian character Bob Downe, a man who personifies all that was great about regional daytime TV in the ‘70s. He’s beige, he takes great care of his hair, he doesn’t believe in wearing natural fibres and he has a very extensive existence in Mark’s imagination.
“You have to imagine a whole life for the character,” says Mark, “where he’s from, where he lives, how he lives and how he’s grown up – I’ve got a very, very, VERY complete and clear family history and setting for him. He’s very real in my mind.” He’s very real in many other people’s minds as well. “A lot of people do think he’s real,” says Mark. “For the last 25 years, I’ve been answering to ‘Bob’ and ‘Mark’. I answer to both,” he laughs.
Mark was born in Melbourne in 1959, trained as a journalist at the Herald Sun, and moved to Sydney in 1982 with the huge success of his cabaret group The Globos. He created Bob Downe in 1984 and has toured the world as the Prince of Polyester ever since – including five sell-out Sydney Opera House seasons and 13 Edinburgh Fringe festivals.
World War Bob, premiered to acclaim at the Adelaide Cabaret Festival in June 2009. Bob’s most recent TV appearance was hosting the 2010 Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade broadcast for Foxtel/Arena.
Since 2002, Mark Trevorrow has established a parallel career singing, acting and broadcasting as himself. He is heard regularly on ABC Radio and his 2004 nostalgic talkumentary series The Way We Were was a ratings winner on the national broadcaster. He has also appeared regularly on Kath and Kim as ‘Darryl’ the menswear salesman.
“…three encores were scarcely enough for a near-insatiable crowd.” The Advertiser
Featuring four Aussie Troupers: MARK TREVORROW as Pvt. Bob Downe/ JANE MARKEY as the Vamps & Heroines of War, and Mrs Ida Downe/ Musical Director & Arranger: JOHN THORN/ Singing Percussionist & All –Rounder: JEREMY HOPKINS/ Designer: ANA WOJAK/ Choreographer: JACK WEBSTER
For more information log onto www.adelaidefestivalcentre.com.au
What: World War Bob
Venue: Her Majesty’s Theatre
When: 27 – 30 April. Wednesday 2pm & 8pm, Thursday & Friday 8pm, Saturday 6pm.
Suitable: 15 years +
Cost: Adult $40, Concession $35, Groups (6+) $35
Bookings: BASS on 131 246 or online at www.bass.net.au
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