Presented by Therry Theatre
Reviewed 24 March 2022
The original story of Whisky Galore was written by Sir Edward Compton Mackenzie in 1947 and it became a successful film, just as Mackenzie’s’ other popular story became a favourite TV series, Monarch of the Glen. The playwright, Philip Goulding has adapted many well-known stories into plays and gave this one an extra twist when making the adaptation. The play, set in post-war Britain represents the many theatre groups of that time consisting of mostly females who had to act, build sets and manage props all themselves. Consequently, the cast of seven ladies play innumerable characters (and animals) throughout the script. All this is directed by Angela Short with tongue firmly in cheek on an imaginative ‘amateur’ looking set designed by Don Oswald.
Kate Anolak sets the scene as Flora Bellerby, playing the narrator/author Monty; she goes on to play several other roles (priest and policeman) changing costumes and maintaining accents throughout. Each player plays many roles and all of the ladies have at least one stand out part. Lindy LeCornu as Connie Calvert gives fine performances as Sergeant Fred Odd and Major Quickblick, the lover and the stiff shirt. Versatile Esther Michelsen shines as Tom Ferguson but especially as Sheep no.1 and the dour Mrs Campbell! Emily Currie becomes a chameleon when she changes from Peggy Macroon to many strange characters. Natasha Scholey’s character plays the other love interest Catriona Macleod as well as a coupe of strong males. Lucy Johnson is terribly gung-ho as Bea Cornford being Paul Wagget the local commander and Chelsea Lancione as Juliet Mainwaring plays his wife Dolly hilariously.
It’s all delightfully confusing, very silly and lots of fun. The scurrying to collect forgotten props, the occasional missed costume change, Paul Wagget’s dog, played by several cast at different times and the flock of well costumed sheep all add up to a very different production and much amusement.
Reviewed by Fran Edwards
Your Twitter: @franeds
Venue: Arts Theatre
Season: 24 Mar -2 Apr 2022
Duration: 2.5 hrs including interval
Tickets: $15 – $30
Bookings: trybooking.com
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