Review: THE WHARF REVUE: CELEBRATING 15 YEARS Takes A Satirical Look At the Last 15 Years In Politics
Thursday 10 September, 2015, Riverside Theatres, Parramatta
Sydney Theatre Company's THE WHARF REVUE: CELEBRATING 15 YEARS delivers another punchy political parody. With a blend of new works and popular sketches and characters from previous years, writers, creators and performers Jonathan Biggins, Drew Forsythe and Phillip Scott are joined by Amanda Bishop as they provide an astute commentary on the Nation's political landscape.
This year's WHARF REVUE utilizes an Art Deco inspired set of curved stairs leading up to the upper walk above a circular stage, at the rear of which sits a grand piano. The screen backdrop of "sunset arches" is reminiscent of Radio City Music Hall and the Looney Tunes opening circles, setting the mood for the variety show to follow.
The creative team has delivered another show filled with incredibly clever songs, dance and spoken word poetry as they bring back favorite personalities from the past and capture current political players. There is a blend of live performance and recorded "archives" projected on the rear screen which allows for the many costume changes required to allow the quartet to embody so many characters. The performers have captured physical quirks as well as mimicking vocal signatures to portray their targets in dialogue and reworks of popular musical theatre pieces including excerpts from PHANTOM OF THE OPERA and LES MISERABLES and the iconic THE GOON SHOW radio play.
To say much more would give away too much, but those with an interest in politics, and even those with a passing knowledge of current affairs will enjoy the send ups of current and former politicians. The mix of theatrical styles ensures that there is variety in the well-paced performance.
THE WHARF REVUE: CELEBRATING 15 YEARS
Riverside Theatres, Parramatta
9 - 12 September 2015
Canberra Theatre Centre, Canberra
15-26 September 2015
7 - 17 October 2015
Wharf 1 Theatre, Sydney Theatre Company, Walsh Bay
20 October - 19 December 2015
Rehearsal Photographs: Hon Boey
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