Primrose Hill is a one act play inspired by a magazine article about Patsy Kensit and Liam Gallagher, written by Adam Zwar, star of Wilfred, The Wedge, Underbelly and winner of the 2007 AFI Award for Best Actor in a Television Comedy.An ordinary Aussie guy in England, played by Paul Denny, is beaten up coincidentally outside Patsy’s house, welcomed in and is instantly attracted to her, finds himself having sex with her, but discovers he was filmed by Liam and is now forbidden to leave.
The direction by Russell Fletcher was strong and hardly noticed (the best kind of direction). The script is tight, lively, funny and provides opportunity for a great acting performance which Paul Denny delivers. He plays a number of characters, including having to do a scarily accurate Hugh Grant impersonation and keeps the momentum up and audience on the edge of their seats ‘til the final word. Paul is one of the most underrated actors in this country, earning his living largely from voice-overs and having just starred in Adam Zwar’s soon-to-be-released feature film, Rats and Cats, he is yet to be widely known by the Australian public, but given the right role and exposure, he will be soon and his success will be well-deserved.
The second one act play of the evening, Kissing for Australia, also written by Adam Zwar, is equally endearing. This time Adam himself performs and does so with a credibility and dry humour which had the audience gripped and enjoying every moment. The piece is simply, yet beautifully directed by Joy Mitchell.
A young man struggles to get a date, ends up with a girlfriend almost by default and discovers he’s suddenly attractive to other women, so he cheats and decides the only thing to do is marry his girlfriend, but when he does and learns she’s also cheated, the proverbial poo hits the fan.
Adam Zwar, via his television writing and performing, as well as through these two one act plays has shown yet again he is a writing and performing tour de force. He has recently received funding for a new television series and deservedly so. It is rare this kind of creative talent comes along and when it does, it’s a breath of fresh air which should be supported, encouraged and enjoyed.
The plays run until April 12.
La Mama presents
Primrose Hill and Kissing for Australia
Two plays by 2007 AFI winner Adam Zwar
Venue: La Mama at the Carlton Courthouse, 349 Drummond Street, Carlton
Dates: March 25 – April 12, 2008
Times: Tuesdays and Sundays at 6.30pm, Wednesdays to Saturdays at 8.00pm
Tickets: $20 (full) / $10 (conc.)
Duration: 80 minutes approx
Bookings: 9347 6142 or