Presented by Stirling Players
Reviewed 8 March 2020
How appropriate to be watching this play on International Women’s Day! A play written by a woman, directed by a woman, crewed by women and starring four talented female actors.
Wicked Sisters is the South Australian premiere of Alma De Groen’s last play, previously performed interstate. De Groen is a New Zealand born playwright who spent much of her time writing in Australia. The script looks at the female experience, examining the passage of time and the loss of dreams.
These four women, who studied together, are in the house of Meridee (Petra Schulenburg) at her invitation. None of the invitees are really sure why they have been asked there. Lydia (Deborah Walsh) is a real estate agent with a busy schedule, Judith (April Stuart) is convinced that as Meridee stopped replying to calls and texts some time ago that she is not really welcome and Hester (Tracey Korsten), currently a hotel cleaner, seems oblivious to the tension in the others.
The reason for the get together is ostensibly the passing of Meridee’s husband, a clever man, whom each of the women have known since university. The rifts between the women are slowly revealed as deceit and betrayal unfold and lead to varied confessions, all concluding with a twist.
This production, directed by Megan Dansie, allows the plot to unfold slowly. On a well thought out set, showing signs of Meridee’s packing of her husband’s books and papers, the four women move cautiously, and the interval leaves the audience wondering. The women all have claims of one type or another on the deceased man. Discovering what and why is an interesting journey. The cast is strong and well-chosen all presenting fine performances, a compelling ensemble.
Reviewed by Fran Edwards
Twitter: @franeds
Venue: Stirling Community Theatre
Season: 6-21 March 2020
Duration: 120 mins
Tickets: Adults $22, Conc. $18, Groups of 10 + $16
Bookings: Book online at www.stirlingplayers.sct.org.au or phone (08) 74816152
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