Review: MASTERCLASS 2: FLAMES OF THE FORGE Carries On The Relationship Between Creator and Creation

Thursday 14th January 2016, 7:30pm, Old Fitz Theatre, Woolloomooloo

The Actor and his Creation return with Gareth Davies and Charlie Garber's latest work MASTERCLASS 2: FLAMES OF THE FORGE. Following on from last year's MASTERCLASS (A PLAY), actors/writers/directors Davies and Garber take the audience back into the bizarre life of the ultimate actor and his best character as a new Masterclass is devised.

The passage of time is indicated by the initial screening of a television interview between Gareth and movie critic David Stratton. Since we last saw Gareth he has apparently moved on from the musical theatre role he was born into and taken to starring in movies. Again, Davies and Garber manipulate history and redefine science with Gareth apparently starring in a number of recognizable block busters and being able to change the fate of the world with his acting.

MASTERCLASS 2: FLAMES OF THE FORGE is presented in the same format with dialogue, mime, lighting and mood music presented by the auto-tracks on an electronic keyboard as Gareth starts to present a lecture on "What is Acting?" He reintroduces the 'Dream Forge' and 'the lab', revisiting his memories of his greatest creation Charlie Garber who has 'died' since the original storyline. As Gareth retrieves Charlie from his subconscious we see the bond between the two as Gareth proposes that they create the ultimate Masterclass.

Whilst a sequel, those that haven't seen the first production can still follow along as the duo take the audience into their bizarre world. Elements carried over are explained in enough detail for new viewers but with brevity to ensure that the pace does not drag for return audiences.

Davies and Garber present an entertaining exploration into their futuristic world with clever dialogue and comic physicality. The appearance of nervousness and spontaneity fits well with the storyline and the premise that this is a discovery unfolding on stage.

MASTERCLASS 2: FLAMES OF THE FORGE is an interesting, thought provoking work that challenges the audience to see possibilities, no matter how remote and also see a blend of the ultimate narcissism and eternal friendship.

MASTERCLASS 2: FLAMES OF THE FORGE

Old Fitz Hotel

12 January 2016 - 30th January 2016

MASTERCLASS (A PLAY) (the original) will also be presented on 23rd , 24th and 30th January.

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