|
The Enthusiasts | Kate McLennan |
|
|
|
Written by Jessica Thomson
|
|
Sunday, 30 March 2008 |
 The Enthusiasts - local girl Kate McLennan's collection
of "extreme fanatics, aficionados and all round enthusiastic people" -
is a gorgeous show. Beneath the sharply observed, sardonic exterior
lies a heart of gold.
McLennan is such a radiant presence she barely needs the stage lights.
Her performance was polished, energetic and for the most part perfectly
timed; her writing is strong and detailed. The way she embodies her
five characters - and with the merest of aids (baseball cap, high
heels, a stuffed toy) - is uncanny at times, bringing to mind Chris
Lilley of Summer Heights High fame.
McLennan revisits each of her five characters three times over the
course of the hour-long show (the antics of one character, Justin
Timberlake die-hard Natalie and her soon to be "ex-best friend"
Michelle are pre-recorded handycam style on location at Rod Laver
Arena). This structure works brilliantly, leaving you hanging for the
next installment of each brilliantly realised character. There is a
great deal of fanaticising through gritted teeth. Their stories become
progressively disquieting, revealing the sad stories and insecurities
behind the fiercely and hilariously enthusiastic fronts.
Goal-attainment guru Janine Irene, insufferable teenager Natalie,
deluded casanova Chad, and highly-strung prep teacher/Wiggles fanatic
Miranda all have their moments of deftness and hilarity, but for my
money, it's McLennan's turn as 7-year-old reading and writing
enthusiast Janie Brown that steals the show. I was captivated,
entertained and even, to my surprise, (almost) moved to tears. Highly
recommended.
Pregnant Goldfish presents
Kate McLennan in
The Enthusiasts
Venue: Melbourne Town Hall - Regent Room
Dates: 20th March – 13th April (Not Mondays) Previews 20th-23rd March
Tickets: $20 Full, $18 Concession, $15 Previews
Times: 7.15pm Tues-Sat (6.15 on Sundays)
Bookings: Ticketmaster 1300 660 013, www.comedyfestival.com.au or at the door
Website: www.myspace.com/katemclennan
 Quote this review on your site | E-mail
Powered by AkoComment Tweaked Special Edition v.1.4.4 |
