Goodbye Charlie

The Factory Space Theatre Company’s production of Goodbye Charlie is a pleasing comedy of errors. Deborah Mulhall directs the modernised adaptation of George Axelrod’s play where we meet the unlikely trio of George, Rusty and the allusive Charlie Sorel. We soon learn of Charlie, the Barney Stinson-eque womaniser who is forced to re-think his tactics after being killed and reincarnated as a woman. As someone who has been seemingly blessed with charisma, opportunity and the gift of the gab, Charlie soon finds out that this may just be his toughest challenge yet. With thick dramatic irony and rom-com sensibilities we soon find ourselves melded to the plight of the seemingly misunderstood Charlie and his friends. But, let us not forget the players… It is clear that actress Michela Carattini (Charlie Sorel/The Baroness) has hit her stride with the comedy genre. Her commitment to the embodiment of character showcases her great comedic timing and physical dedication to the role. Her approach to the playboy Charlie Sorel is detailed and ranges from the highly sexual narcissist to the vulnerable, honest girl. Vincent Andriano gels the story together as Charlie’s long-suffering best friend George Tracy. As the medium between the reincarnated Charlie and the rest of the world, Andriano is on stage for the majority of the production yet he maintains a refreshing energy throughout. Rosemary Ghazi rounds out the ensemble with a performance of a delicate socialite and avenging lover. Her graceful and seductive portrayal of the manipulative Rusty Mayerling is a delight to watch. The intimate space of the Star of Sea Theatre in Manly is ideal for this play. The early audience interaction cleverly gives the patron an invested appreciation of the characters. The play’s Sydney locale allows the character stereotypes to be reinforced and met with a knowing smile from the audience. Witty and dramatic, this show is a refreshing comedy that is great fun! Goodbye Charlie is on at Star of the Sea Theatre, Manly until the 29th September 2013. By Rhianne Ev