Adelaide Fringe

Chapter Two – Adelaide Fringe 2011 (continuing to Sat 19th March)

Presented by Galleon Theatre Group
Reviewed Friday 11 March 2011

http://www.galleon.org.au
http://www.adelaidefringe.com.au

Venue: Domain Theatre, Marion Cultural Centre, Diagonal Road, Oaklands Park
Season: 16-19 March at 8pm; Matinee 19 March at 2pm
Tickets: $20/$15.00
Duration: 2.5 hours
Bookings: phone 8322 9132 or online at www.galleon.org.au

Neil Simon’s poignant comedy is well realised under the deft hand of director Kym Clayton.

The story centres around widower George Schneider, now entering ‘chapter two’ of his life and struggling to accept happiness again after the loss of his wife of 12 years. Parallel to his struggles is the story of recently divorced Jennie, happy to be free and surprised to find herself in love again so quickly. As the couple struggle to accept love in their life, their best friends struggle to find solace outside of their unhappy marriages.

The ensemble of four are all stellar, with Andrew Clark taking the lead as angst-ridden George. He finds a comfortable balance between George’s inner struggle and his external wit. As George’s brother, Aldo Longobardi handles a powerfully emotional monologue extremely well, providing a nice contrast to his otherwise jovial character.

Sharon Pitardi is Jennie, the most practical of the lot and a loyal friend and partner despite all difficulties. Pitardi brings depth, warmth and humour to what could easily become a one-dimensional character. Playing soap star Faye, the delightful Lana Adamuszek is fun to watch, bringing a fair amount of sass to the stage.

Each of the actors handle their American accents very well.

The nicely furnished, angular set design by Steve Kelly depicts two New York apartments and, aside from a dead spot in the centre of the stage between the apartments, Ray Trowbridge’s basic lighting design is practical and effective.

A sweet story of love and loss, told with Neil Simon’s usual flair for comedy.

Reviewed by Rod Lewis, Performing Arts Critic, Glam Adelaide.

More News

To Top