Written by Nakkiah
Lui
Directed by Paige
Rattray
Sydney Theatre Company
The Playhouse, Canberra
Theatre Centre to 6 April
Reviewed by Len Power
3 April 2019
Following her success last year with her play, ‘Black Is the
New White’, Nakkiah Lui has written a ferocious new comedy about manipulation
in the political arena. Although written
and played as farce, it has an uncomfortable ring of truth about it all.
Three political staffers, Vic (Aboriginal), Zaza (Chinese)
and Chris (Islander), conspire to create a federal politician by training up an
unknown actor. They plan to get him
elected and defeat a Bill before parliament that threatens multiculturalism. Their election plan succeeds but they soon
realize they have created an even bigger problem.
 |
| Michelle Lim Davidson, Anthony Taufa and Nakkiah Lui |
Nakkiah Lui’s play is an incisive roller coaster ride
through the current political, social and cultural issues facing this
country. The three protagonists are at
the top of their game with their knowledge of media manipulation,
discrimination, political correctness, multiculturalism and every other issue that
stands in the way of running their scheme.
The fact that they themselves display many of the traits they are
critical of, gives the play another dimension that is very funny and very
truthful. The first act is especially
well-written. The second act has some
moments where the comedy feels heavy-handed.
On a spectacular and attractive setting by designer, Marge
Horwell, the director, Paige Rattray, has staged the show very well. She has obtained nicely in-depth characters
from all of her cast and keeps the action running at breath-taking speed
throughout. Although the actors are
miked, there were times when the fast dialogue was hard to hear.
 |
| Hamish Michael and Anthony Taufa |
There are excellent performances from Michelle Lim Davidson,
Anthony Taufa and Nakkiah Lui as the three political schemers and Hamish
Michael is a stand out as the gormless actor, Lewis Lewis, who is turned into
the slick politician, Tommy Ryan. Rhys
Muldoon is convincing as the nasty, foul-mouthed Prime Minister and Gareth
Davies and Vanessa Downing sparkle in their multiple roles.
The music composed by Steve Francis and Paul Mac worked very
well, breaking up the intensity of the dialogue at the right times. The lighting and audio visual design by Emma
Valente was striking with some unexpected effects that worked very well.
With this play, Nakkiah Lui shows again that she is a strong
and exciting voice in Australian drama.
Photos by Prudence
Upton
This review was first
published in the Canberra City News digital edition of 4 April 2019.
Len Power’s reviews
are also broadcast on the Artsound FM 92.7 ‘In the Foyer’ program on Mondays
and Wednesdays at 3.30pm.
