Original script by
Marc Camoletti
Adapted by Robin
Hawdon
Directed by Walter Learning
Canberra Rep at
Theatre 3 to 5 December
Review by Len Power
20 November 2015
Marc Camoletti’s ‘Don’t Dress For Dinner’, in its English
adaptation by Robin Hawdon, ran for six years in London’s West End from
1991. Walter Learning’s excellent
production of the play for Canberra Rep shows why it was so popular.
A farce, in which both husband and wife are having affairs
that collide on one memorable evening, the extra fun in this one is that the
lies told get found out earlier than expected.
This just causes even more confusion resulting in still more lies and
perilously pathetic attempts at logical explanations. This is really a very funny play.
Peter Holland and Rob de Fries demonstrate once again that
they are Canberra’s top performers in this type of play. Their sense of timing for both the physical
and verbal action is perfect and they wring every laugh out of the script. As Peter Holland’s wife, Jacqueline, Monique
Dyson does well but isn’t quite as skilful as the men, missing potential laughs
with some mistimed moments. Natalie Waldron
and Michelle Cooper give amusing performances as Suzette and Suzanne. Daniel McCusker creates a nice character with
the smaller role of George.
Canberra Rep’s sets are always something to see but this one
by Andrew Kay is a beauty. A living room
converted from a French barn, it’s stylish and very well decorated. Colours are enhanced by Mike Moloney’s
lighting design and the costumes by Ann Moloney have been well chosen. Neil McRitchie’s busy sound design adds to
the fun of the show.
You can usually expect a good production from director,
Walter Learning, but this one is especially memorable for its attention to
detail. He keeps the pace running at a furious
speed but ensures that the actors can be clearly understood at every
moment. It’s a good play to start with
but Walter Learning has given it that extra something that makes it an outstanding
entertainment. Don’t miss it!
Len Power’s reviews
can also be heard on Artsound FM’s ‘Artcetera’ program from 9am Saturdays.
