Presented by Galleon Theatre Group Inc
Reviewed 31 October 2013
The Club is an iconic Australian play by Australia’s most produced playwright, and as such is often treated with undue reverence. Galleon’s production is a down to earth rendition of this well-written comedy.
The play takes place in the committee rooms of an Aussie Rules football club in the glorious 1970s, although if you take away the football references, it could be the committee rooms of any sport or recreational club with the usual petty politics. The characters are well written and this cast does them justice.
Peter Smith is Ted, the businessman president who has never played for the club and has all the bluster and front with the underlying vulnerability. Aldo Longobaldi manages the slightly oily character of Gerry the club administrator with ease, and Warren McKenzie is a solid and believable Laurie, the coach. The strongest performance comes from Andrew Horwood as Jock, former club star, wannabe president and committee member.
The players are well represented by Myles Teakle as Danny, and Hal Bruce as Geoff, the very expensive new player who is not delivering the goods. In particular the ‘smoking scene’ between Horwood and Bruce works well.
The set is realistic and well dressed, looking out on to an oval that has been painted with great perspective. Kudos to the set design/construction team. Overall the play flows well but with some questionable blocking which creates a few awkward moves.
Galleon regularly presents good theatre and this production is no exception. Don’t worry if you don’t like or follow football, it will make you laugh anyway!
Reviewed by Fran Edwards
Venue: Domain Theatre, Marion Cultural Centre, Oaklands Park
Season: 31 October – 9 November 2013
Tickets: $15.00 – $20.00
Bookings: Galleon Theatre website
Photo Credit: Hal Bruce and Peter Smith in The Club. Image supplied by Galleon Theatre Group
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