West Reviews 'The Myth of Julian Rose'

Went last night and was most impressed with the whole production. We were seated at the front with parts of the set so close it felt like we may become part of the production. ALL of the performers are very good but Sarah Nelson gets extra points for delivery of a performance that relies on her movement (you'll see what I mean). And by performers, let's include the gentleman who did the music because it was so effective, it was a character in itself. It can't be easy playing a cello in low-level lighting wreathed in stage smoke - well done. Daniel, this is a quantum leap forward for you and as I said to you last night, points to even better things to come in the future. Your love of language shows through but perhaps the improvement for me is in the fact that you have eased back on the wordy monologues giving your actors more "space" in which to create mood and emotion. The words you chose were enough to create the drama and for this piece, less was so much more. This production is very much the some of it's parts and the direction of Marisa Gareffa shows as being integral to the success of the piece. There are moments that could roll over into the melodramatic, not because of the writing but in the hands of less talented performers it could have easily steered in that direction. Marisa's choices (and listening to her after the performance this included chopping dialogue, changing scenes, ditching costumes....right up until the final moment) showed that whilst she allowed the production to come together organically, she had the courage to make the tough decisions to ensure the piece held it's form. Daniel was very wise to listen to her counsel when she was chopping some of his dialogue and kudos to him for doing so. Not an easy thing to allow that control to slip from your hands. Finally, the production team should have been on hand to take a bow. Great set, great costumes (can't say too much here 'cos it may spoil), effective lighting. Well done all. Daniel Kershaw is a friend so there may be some bias in my waffle but I sincerely believe this play is a large step in his writing career and Daniel's arrival as a significant young WA talent. Do yourself a favour, get off your arse, get to the Blue Room and give it a squizz. Subject matter is disturbing so don't bring the wee ones. Looking forward to Daniel's next play - a one act bio-piece entitled "The Reality of Daniel Kershaw". Nice one mate.