| The Pillowman | Company B |
| Written by Ashley Walker |
| Friday, 06 June 2008 00:54 |
 Photos - Heidrun Lohr Slideshow
No story is ever just a story. The stories we tell reflect our life experiences, even if we are not aware how. For these stories to come out, a writer will often have to go through shit. Sometimes, a whole lifetime of shit. Anyone who saw playwright Martin McDonagh's The Lieutenant of Inishmore at Belvoir St Theatre in 2003 is unlikely to forget it. Bodies were hacked to pieces with more blood than a Tarantino flick. McDonagh's The Pillowman is a lot less bloody but no less horrific. Katurian (Damon Herriman) has been detained by detectives Ariel (Dan Wyllie) and Tupolski (Marton Csokas). The detectives have 400 of his stories in their possession. The treatment of kids in these stories make Bill Henson’s photography look like happy snaps. Kids have been killed as described in the stories and Katurian, along with his retarded brother Michal, are the main suspects. Katurian does not usually write about his own life. The one exception is the tale of a boy who was doted on by his parents as he began to write. Next door, his brother was constantly tortured for seven years. Gradually the stories became darker. Plays that examine the nature of writing can become self indulgent and pretentious. This is not the case here. Each of us can reflect on the events that have made us who we are. Would it be better if we hadn’t lived through the darkest times? McDonagh once again shows us his unique blend of black comedy and sheer terror. The banter of the detectives is reminiscent of Tom Stoppard, jumbled and slightly absurd. McDonagh knows how to use a running gag as a tension breaker and the gags never outstay their welcome. All performances are outstanding. Wyllie adds roughness and a touch of sarcasm to Ariel. Herriman is warm and genuine as Katurian. While Steve Rodgers shows just the right amount of naivety as Michal. At approximately 2 hours 40 minutes it is worth the late night. The blend of comedy and horror makes this playwriting at its best. Members of the Sydney constabulary should see this play before raiding any more art galleries. Company B presents THE PILLOWMAN by Martin McDonagh Venue: Belvoir St Theatre, 25 Belvoir St, Surry Hills Dates: 31 May - 13 July Times: Tuesday 6.30pm, Wednesday to Friday 8pm, Saturday 2pm & 8pm, Sunday 5pm Tickets: Full $54. Seniors (excluding Fri/Sat evenings) and Groups 10+ $45. Concession $33. Student Rush $25 for Tuesday 6.30pm and Saturday 2pm, available from 10am on the day (subject to availability) Bookings: 9699 3444 or www.belvoir.com.au
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Comments (3)Subscribe to this comment's feed...
One of the most stunning pieces of theatre I've seen in some time,
my friend, who is rarely able to get aware from her analytical and critical theatre self was so overcome by the beauty of this work that she cried for half of the first act. Disturbingly wonderful text, acting, direction and production.
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June 09, 2008
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i thought this was one of the most remakable pieces i have ever seen. The way the stories warp and weave is the work of a master playwright at his peak. Although not for the squeamish the journey is a beautiful one and i certainly had my breathe taken away by the end. The design and direction were excellent and all performances fantastic. Is it true that Dan Wyllie played the role of michal in the melbourne production? what a truly great performer he is, bringing humour and pathos to yet another classic role in a stunning production. what a master
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June 11, 2008
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an amazing peice of theatre. i was supposed be writing notes for a hsc review, but i couldnt look away. the connection between the cast and the audience was electrifying. so moving, and very much an exploration of the darker side of human life. the relationship between michel and katurian was inspiring.
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July 31, 2008
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