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Arthur Miller’s The Crucible is a fearsome piece of theatre. In part due to its sadly timeless themes of society’s inclination to blame and ostracise nonconformists, in part due to its emotionally demanding characters that drive the story, and in the case of Point Break Theatre Co’s production, due to the palpable tension and talent found on stage. Co-Directors Paul Winchester and Blair Cutting have crafted a production that explores tension in all its forms, not just through

From the moment I stepped into the Redgum Function Centre, I was transported to the campus of East High, an all-American high school centred around basketball. Layered posters of the cast mimicked the high school noticeboards and truly set the scene for Holroyd Musical and Dramatic Society’s (HMDS) High School Musical. From the Wildcat Cheer, the audience knew they were in for a cheerful, wholesome and energetic performance. Wendy Hudson is to be congratulated for bringing he

Adaptation is hard, particularly when it comes to adapting beloved movies to the stage. Some shows like Legally Blonde do a wonderful job of taking what was good in the source material and creating something new. I cannot say the same for Sister Act. I honestly wouldn't be shocked if the composers of Sister Act had only ever read a synopsis of the movie. Nevertheless, this show has broad appeal and name recognition, and so it exists. I like to preface when my opinion of the m

There is something especially satisfying about seeing a community theatre company take on a large, familiar musical and make it work within the honest limits of the space available. Mosman Musical Society’s production of Oliver!, staged at the Zenith Theatre in Chatswood, does exactly that. It is warm, disciplined, well-paced and performed with obvious care by a very large cast who understand both the charm and the darkness of Lionel Bart’s much-loved musical. I should also d