Single Admissions

 At Single Admissions audience members are stamped “slut” on arrival, spoiled with jelly shots on entry and handed extra strength condoms on the way out. If this doesn’t draw a clear enough picture about the show’s content, the foul-mouthed knicker-flashing vodka-skulling ladies will.

 Presented by: Allies, Metro ArtsVenue: Sue Benner Theatre, Brisbane Wednesday, 7 April, 2010 
At Single Admissions audience members are stamped “slut” on arrival, spoiled with jelly shots on entry and handed extra strength condoms on the way out. If this doesn’t draw a clear enough picture about the show’s content, the foul-mouthed knicker-flashing vodka-skulling ladies will. When Kat was five she wanted to be a Disney princess, and while the idea of castles and tiaras may have faded over the years, at 22 she’s still searching for her prince. With friends Alisha and Peta in tow, they spend their Saturday nights boozing and hunting for men to take home. Kat is torn between the fun weekends with her friends made up of partying and empty sex with strangers, and the burning desire to be partnered off with her “prince charming”.  Writer Tammy Weller, who also plays the lead role of Kat, has managed to capture the promiscuous lifestyle that is currently rife among young women with witty and emotional insight. In parts it’s shocking, hilarious and frightening, but mostly it’s one-act jam packed with a feast of entertainment for the eyes and ears. The girl’s behaviour, although exaggerated for effect, rang very true. Particularly accurate was the scene in the night-club’s ladies. First, the girls struggle to reach the toilets as the cross the crowded dance floor (think Birdie Num-nums). Then the audience are witnesses the bathroom banter as the night progresses – and as the girls get drunker. All three actresses were hilarious when discussing the male talent outside, and admiring their looks in the mirror, eg. “F*** we’re hot”. Brilliant lighting by Geoff Squires and sound by Nathan Stoneham made scenes like this possible. Strongly animated performances from Natalie Trent and Amy Ingram formed a sharp team with Weller’s lead. Each girl brought a different aspect to the play delivering a highly enthusiastic and engaging show. Weller shone in her more emotional moments. Her softness and vulnerability beautifully contrasted the brashness of Ingram as Amy and Aunt Judy.  Ingram bravely took hold of her character’s ruggedness, but was also a riot as the vapid model/actor. Trent stood out for me as an extremely versatile actress. She easily transitioned from Kat’s Mum, to model/actor, to cute friend Alisa and performed well in all roles. The great script, quality acting and exceptional lighting and sound were brought together by the talents of director Dan Evans. The clothing racks on stage were resourceful for many scenes, and costumes on set were a nice touch to character changes on stage. The show also included dance moves featuring a finale dance by the girls – a perfect end to the night. Choreography for this brilliant number was handled by Angelique Cassimatis. If you are a woman in your 20’s, who is single or who has ever been single, see this show. Men will enjoy it too, but it really is all from a woman’s perspective and men may find it harder to relate to some aspects. Don’t see this show if you hate loud music, disco lights or a shocking reality check on the young people of today. Single Admissions is showing until the 24th of April. Don’t miss it, but be warned, these ladies love coarse language!  Bookings: www.metroarts.com.au Until 24 April, 2010