Presented by University of Adelaide Theatre Guild
Reviewed 6 October 2015
Multi-award winning writer, Reg Cribb’s play The Return is the Theatre Guild’s latest offering.
A tightly scripted piece, with no interval, this is not for the faint-hearted. Five characters are all catching the last train to Fremantle, in the small hours. How will they interact? Do any of them know each other more than they care to admit?
l to r: James Whitrow, James King
The play opens with the boarding of lads, Steve and Trev, played by James Whitrow and James King, respectively. Both of these actors give their all in the parts: King giving a physical restlessness to his character that is exquisite (if tiring!) to watch, whilst Whitrow plays his complex character with humanity and intelligence.
l to r: James Whitrow, James King, Sarah Cullinan
Joining them in the carriage are the always-reliable Steve Marvanek, as the writer, young actor Sarah Cullinan, giving a delicate, under-played performance as Lisa and Nicole Rutty, who shines as Maureen.
Erik Strauts has directed this production without a missed beat or unnecessary move. Strauts also designed the wonderful set, which is beautifully lit by Richard Parkhill. As the station names are projected against the back-wall, we sense a growing feeling of unease, the closer we get to Fremantle.
This play is uncomfortable, suspenseful, dramatic and at times humorous. It manages to grip from soup to nuts.
This is ensemble work at its best.
Reviewed by Tracey Korsten
Twitter: @TraceyKorsten
Venue: The Little Theatre The Cloisters (off Victoria Drive), University of Adelaide
Season: 3 – 17 October 2015
Duration: 90 mins
Tickets: $23.00 – $28.00
Bookings: www.adelaide.edu.au/theatreguild (fee applies)
www.trybooking.com/ISKV (fee applies)
Tickets on the door subject to availability (cash only)
http://www.theyellowagency.com/index.php/reg-cribb/
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