Latest

Fringe Review: White Rabbit Red Rabbit

Writer Nassim Soleimanpour. Photo by Nima Soleimanpour.

An absurdist story with analogous political overtones, sad statistics and an accomplished actor who sees the script for the first time on the night.

 

Writer Nassim Soleimanpour. Photo by Nima Soleimanpour.

Writer Nassim Soleimanpour. Photo by Nima Soleimanpour.

Presented by Aurora Nova and Bamboozled Productions
Reviewed 25 February 2015

Writer Nassim Soleimanpour cannot travel beyond his native Iran; he is a conscientious objector who has refused to take part in compulsory military service so he sent an envoy with some pretty important messages in his place. Written in 2010, his well-travelled messenger is a little gem of a play called White Rabbit Red Rabbit.

Interspersed with information about, and from, the writer, White Rabbit Red Rabbit tells an absurdist story with analogous political overtones. Add in some sad statistics and an accomplished actor who sees the script for the first time, right there in front of you, and you have a splendid piece of experimental theatre, full of surprises.

Each show’s actor is (obviously) different. I was lucky enough to be at the sold-out performance starring Jude Henshall who approached the experience with good humour and just the right amount of chutzpah. The audience warmed immediately to her and she proceeded with clarity and appeal through what was clearly a tricky task. A fleeting moment of distress was handled with complete professionalism and this glimpse of her vulnerable side made her even more endearing. She gave a stellar performance despite a few understandable script trips, keeping a good rhythm and maintaining the intrigue contained within the foreign pages in her hand.

A nod also to her delightful impersonation of an ostrich.

Soleimanpour’s honest outpouring and directness are refreshing and interesting; he does not beat about the bush. That the performer and audience are both coming to the show for the first time brings an energy and vitality that is incomparable to well-rehearsed productions.

Audience interaction is high, so bring your good sportsmanship and experience the wondrous effects of this unique collaborative experience. It will help those moaning about disruptions to traffic to put things in perspective, and appreciate the freedoms we have in this wonderful city. Freedoms that include being able to choose to go to this show.

Content Advisory: Suicidal themes may cause distress. Coarse Language (Mild), Violence (Mild)

Reviewed by Emily Morris
Twitter: @EmMo87
Rating out of 5: 4

Venue: Royal Croquet Club – The Rastelli, Victoria Square, Adelaide
Season: 24 February – 15 March 2015
Duration: 60 minutes
Tickets: $18 – $23
Bookings: Book through FringeTix online or at a FringeTix box office (booking fees apply)

 

More News

To Top