This experimental and high energy excursion into early 21st
century “popera” makes good theatre, but I can’t see it enjoying the
longevity of its generic predecessors.
Varekai opens with an explosion of colourful creatures preening
and playing in a mythical surround. It’s a world to which we are
convincingly transported for the next couple of hours.
Three plays, three authors and three directors: a worthwhile attempt to
encourage young directors by the State Theatre Company, and a worthy
celebration of the company’s 35th birthday
The story traces a
day in the life of Cat in her backyard and shows the trials and
excitement living with the other creatures there; the butterflies, a
caterpillar, frog, dog, chicken, mouse, birds and fish.
It was clear at the very first centre-stage revelation of the Dame in piquant pink to the final bow of Barry Humphries himself that we were in the presence of a master.
