Bomb The Base is a fascinating journey about history, both personal and universal, as told through the eyes of Alice (Christina Walls).
MELBOURNE FRINGE 2011 Presented by: ReAction Theatre, MelbourneVenue: Studio 246
Tuesday 4 October, 2011 Bomb The Base is a fascinating journey about history, both personal and universal, as told through the eyes of Alice (Christina Walls). Written by Mark Andrew this complex and moving play explores a multitude of issues which confront and challenge the audience. Directed by Louise Howlett (Artistic Director of ReAction Theatre) Bomb The Base is not for the faint-hearted, however the beautifully crafted moments of humour provide the perfect emotional intermission. While there were some Opening Night jitters, Howlett has assembled a wonderful ensemble cast to compliment Walls’ deftly performed Alice. The dramatic device of flashbacks to Alice’s past was cleverly executed by Dyllan Corbett (as Eddie) and Charlie Schneeberger (as the Professor). Janet Watson Kruse (as Mum) provided a lovely mix of gentleness and stoicism, containing her grief until it was subtly revealed towards the end of the play. Peter Taranto (as Dad) created a beautiful father/daughter relationship, with his humour and cheekiness a juxtaposition to the turmoil unfolding. Howlett’s powerful direction of this intricately crafted text was, at times, marred by the production’s staging. This resulted in the audience often only having a side view of the characters which proved frustrating at times and Alice’s conversations with her childhood confidante were also often lost to the side of the stage. Aside from this, Bomb The Base is a wonderfully crafted production. Howlett has indeed succeeded in ‘unpacking Alice’s weighty baggage’ by boldly exploring the multiple emotional levels of her historical journey. With only a short season, this play is not to be missed. Bomb The Base runs until Saturday 8th October 2011. Studio 246246A Sydney Road, Brunswick. For further details and tickets phone 9660 9666 or visit www.melbournefringe.com.au