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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2018
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● Butch (Sandy) and Jade Crop (Annie) in Annie at the Cardinia Arts and Cultural Centre. See P13. ■ Chrissie Swan and Jimmy Giggle (Jimmy Rees) have this week been crowned as Moomba Monarchs. A new route has been announced for the Moomba Parade to be staged on Monday, March 12.
Page 2 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 14, 2018
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 14, 2018 - Page 9
Radio People
It’s All About You!
Melbourne
Passing of 96.5FM’s Gary Cameron ■ Gary Cameron, a former presenter on 96.5 Inner FM community radio, has passed away. Like many on-air presenters Gary had a great career in theatre. He was a pupil of the Olive Wallace School of Dancing and appeared as a child performer in many of the Tivoli pantomimes such as Puss In Boots, Noddy in Toyland and Noddy Goes to The Moon. He was a regular as a ‘Happy Olivette’ on The Happy Show on HSV-7 and also performed on Graham Kennedy's In Melbourne Tonight supporting such acts as Toni Lamond, Al Martino and many others. Gary gave up his professional career and Melbourne
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● Gary Cameron
turned to appearing in non-professional musicals at night whilst studying information technology in the daytime at University. Gary Cameron began on air at 96.5 Inner FM in 1998 with his computer show, The Webnet Super Highway Show, and then began his long running Monday morning program Unforgettable Music. He met Jackie Maud at the radio station and they married in 1999. Several years ago, Gary retired from presenting his program due to ill health. Sympathy is extended Jackie and all the family. - Kevin Trask
Irreverent cabaret about Aspergers
● Sophie Smyth and Ryan Smedley in The Aspie Hour. Together they flail through mis- ing, and sing the hell out of everyread social cues, exhibit awkward thing. Ryan shares his solo trip to New behaviours particularly around mat
Artists’ Society pushes for listing
■ The Victorian Artists' Society is calling for the Victorian and Federal Governments and Bayside City Council to support a National Heritage listing for Beaumaris Bay and the Sandringham Foreshore. Ron Smith, Communications Councillor of the Victorian Artists' Society, said the Society was supporting the Sandringham Foreshore Association in its bid to have the location declared as a Heritage site because of the area’s ongoing connection with the Victorian Artists' Society, established in 1870. Members of the Victorian Artists' Society enjoyed paint outs and picnic days prior to the Heidelberg School from the 1870s and the beauty of Port Phillip Bay still attracts artists from the Victorian Artists' Society and other artists on a regular basis. The issue is set to go before Bayside City Council on Tuesday (Feb. 20). The outstanding scenic beauty of the area attracted the early Australian impressionists such as Charles Conder, Tom Roberts, Arthur Streeton, Frederick McCubbin and Walter Withers, who were all foundation members of the Victorian Artists’ Society. They also served as Council members to establish the organisation which has its 150th anniversary in 2020. Tom Roberts painted Slumbering Sea at Mentone 1887 with the location in the vicinity of Keefers boat shed and jetty. Roberts painted this work in the summer of 1886-87 in the vicinity of Keefers boat shed and jetty.
York City through the original songs, illustrating the battles he had dealing with his demons. Sophie explores her own spectacular range of psychological issues by framing her life as a musical. The Aspie Hour contains songs and stories that reflect Ryan and Sophie’s intriguing, honest, touching and at times funny experiences on the spectrum. The show has so far connected well with people with Asperger’s, their family and friends, and, basically, everyone with courage, a brain, and a heart. The Aspie Hour opens on March 28(Preview March 27) and runs until April 5. Occasional coarse language. Suitable for ages 12 and up. Performance Dates: March 27 April 5 Time: 7pm Cost: $25-$32 Venue: The Butterfly Club, 5 Carson Place, Melbourne ? Tickets: thebutterflyclub.com - Cheryl Threadgold
Mad About The Boy ■ UK comic and writer for BBC radio Stephanie Laing presents Mad About the Boy on her debut Australian tour in Melbourne from April 9-22 at Tasma Terrace, as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Stephanie charts her ups and downs in love, from Disney fuelled teenage dreams of romance to the harsh realities of real world dating. Laing’s off-kilter comedic approach and sharply funny stories are a revelation in storytelling; this is guaranteed to be a must-see for those of us who have ever loved, hurt or taken dating tips from Pride and Prejudice. Lovable oddball Laing is said to do more than simply retell her romantic past; the show provides unique perspectives on love, self-sabo-
In This Edition
Old Time Music Hall returns Hope Song at La Mama West Hollywood with Gavin Wood Whatever Happened with Kevin Trask Struth column by David Ellis Observer Classic Books Country Crosswords with Rob Foenander Top 10 Lists with James Sherlock Local Theatre with Cheryl Threadgold Observer Racing with Ted Ryan Harness Racing with Len Baker Country Music Radio News Local Theatre Movies, DVDs
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Showbiz Latest
■ The Aspie Hour, an irreverent and inventive cabaret that tackles the many misconceptions about being an ‘Aspie’ today will be presented from March 27-April 5 at The Butterfly Club. Sophie Smyth and Ryan Smedley combine their song-writing and storytelling skills to relate their own experiences. The Aspie Hour premiered in October last year at the Ballarat Cabaret Festival, and became the surprise hit. Connecting with ‘Aspies’ and the neurotypical alike, The Aspie Hour blows away misconceptions about Asperger’s Syndrome. Ryan and Sophie explore what it’s like to be Aspie through the prism of their identical love: musical theatre. They actually say that ‘love’ doesn’t touch the sides. Try ‘obsession’ and they reckon if music theatre was a celebrity, they’d be going through its rubbish. Sophie and Ryan met while studying at Federation University’s Arts Academy in Ballarat, where they both created cabarets about being on the spectrum.
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tage and therapy, and never shies away from the painful issues surrounding relationships. Performance dates: April 9-22, Venue: Tasma Terrace, 9.15pm,Tickets: $25 Bookings: https://www.trybooking.com/ book/event?eid=341472&
Latest News AroundVictoria
Safeguards call
■ A Colac man is calling for tougher licensing laws in a bid to improve driver safety on our region’s roads after being involved in a head-on collision with an international tourist, reports the Colac Herald.
Drug raids
■ Detectives have smashed drug syndicates in a series of raids across the Wellington Response Zone, reports the Gippsland Times.The Wellington Criminal Investigation Unit, assisted by uniformed members, executed 11 raids in the last month, charging 12 people with a number of offences.
$2.4 million cash
■ A truckie caught with more than $2.4 million in cash near Mildura will be eligible for parole in less than two months. Adrian Brett Miller was sentenced to 19 months behind bars, with a 12-month non-parole period, for negligently dealing with the proceeds of crime, possessing heroin and methamphetamine and attempting to escape from police custody. The 42-year-old at first told police he had found the money in the bushes by the roadside after he pulled over to look for a stick to change a flat tyre, reports the Sunraysia Daily.
Forecast
■ ■ ■ ■
Today (Wed). Scatt. showers. 13°-27° Thurs. Partly cloudy. 14°-23° Fri. Partly cloudy. 14°-23° Sat. Partly cloudy. 14°-24°
Mike McColl Jones
Top 5
TOP 5 REALITY SHO WS SHOW THEY HA VEN'T HAVEN'T THOUGHT OF YET
● Stephanie Laing
5. "World's most repulsive arm-pits". 4. "Aerobics for disabled toilets". 3. "My Dunny Rules". 2. "Fun with Wire Coat-Hangers". 1. "Bob the Builder Takes on the East-West tunnel".
Page 10 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 14, 2018
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Observer Festival of Live Art Local Theatre with Cheryl Threadgold and team
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with Kerry Kulkens ARIES: (March 21-April 20) Lucky Colour: Grey Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 4-1-5-9 Lotto Numbers: 5-14-23-32-39-41 Success can come in many ways and your past efforts will pay off. Love could produce a very intense period; don't attempt to cheat on your partner or you will get caught. TAURUS: (April 21- May 20) Lucky Colour: Pink Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 7-1-6-3 Lotto Numbers: 7-16-25-30-35-43 A few calculated risks should pay off and provided you know what you are about, the rewards could be very high. Many will be emotionally changeable. Be sure you know what you want before it's off with the old and on with the new.
Our Team Editor: Ash Long Features Editor: Peter Mac Columnists: Len Baker (harness racing), Matt Bissett-Johnson (cartoonist), David Ellis (wine and travel), Rob Foenander (country music), Kerry Kulkens (astrology), Nick Le Souef (outback Australia), Mike McColl Jones (life), Greg Ne wman (r adio ), T erry Radf or d ((C C ourt ewman (radio adio), Terry Radfor ord roundsman), Aaron Rourke (movies), Ted Ry an (r acing), Jim Sherlock Ryan (racing), (movies, DVDs), Cheryl Threadgold (local thea e ), K e vin T sho wbiz), theatt rre Ke Trrask ((sho showbiz), Wood (Hollyw Veritas, G avin W ood (Holly w ood). Honorary Reviewers: Mark Briggs, Rita Crispin, Martin Curtis, Sherryn Danaher Danaher,, Barbar a Hughes, L yn Hurs t, K athryn Barbara Lyn Hurst, Ka Keeble, Beth Klein, Deborah Marinaro, Gr aeme McC oubrie therine , McGr egor Graeme McCoubrie oubrie,, Ca Catherine McGregor egor,, David McLean, Maggie Morrison, Jill Pa g e ylie Rackham, Elizabeth Semmel. e,, K Kylie Arts: Peter Kemp. Distribution: Sam Fiorini, phone 9482 1145
Your Stars
GEMINI: (May 21- June 21) Lucky Colour: Yellow Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 4-2-2-11 Lotto Numbers: 4-13-22-31-38-45 Not the best time to make an emotional decision, as you will find it hard to control your feelings. Financially a better period coming up. You may be wise to question the motives of a friend who wants a favour.
● David Finnigan and Reuben Ingall in Kill Climate Deniers presented at Arts House on March 16 and 23. Photo: Sarah Walker ■ It’s time to move, act, witness, unite and Joe points out that penguins mate for life and revolutionise as Arts House presents 22 adven- a manatee is neither a man nor a tee. turous works in the third edition of the Festival of Joe says most animals are great, but swoop Live Art from March 13-25. birds are the worst. His show presents fun and Developed in partnership with Arts House, interesting facts about animals mixed with witty Theatre Works and Footscray CommunityArts social commentary that reminds us all that we Centre, the Festival of Live Art invites inquisi- are really just animals in clothes. tive audiences to experience works by bold artSelf-certified animal expert Joe Shaffer grew ists at their experimental best. up on an emu ranch back in his native Texas From the epic to the microscopic, the Festi- and has actively tried to eat and/or cuddle as val of Live Art encourages everything that is par- many different critters as he could find worldticipatory and interactive. wide.. Arts House Acting Artistic Director Josh As seen on ABC's Ronny Chieng: InternaWright explains: “The festival puts audiences tional Student and heard on ABC Radio, Joe in the driver’s seat to steer their own creative Shaffer returns to Melbourne Comedy Festival works and experiences. with his signature upbeat style and jokes. He “There will be onesies to sew, topics to be says ‘you can’t bear to miss it!’ debated, objects to reassemble, twerkshops, surPerformance Dates: April 9 -22 at 8.15pm real swima- thons and landscapes painting Venue: Tasma Terrace, Melbourne classes – all encounters are in the name of exTickets: $20-$25 perimental and experiential art.” Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au At the North Melbourne Town Hall, audi- Cheryl Threadgold ences are able to experience a series of performances, installations and one-on-one interactions before topping-off the night with special ■ Following a highly successful tour of Kate events, talks and performances. Arts House will present the Festival of Live Middleton Show Queen in 2013, British acArt across Melbourne, both at their home in the tress and comedian Katie Reddin-Clancy brings North Melbourne Town Hall as well as a choral Grace to the Melbourne International Compresentation at West Space and sport inspired edy Festival from March 27-April 1 at 5.30pm. works at Melbourne City Baths and Argyle This show is said to be a witty, passionate Square, Carlton. and captivating call to us to embrace and be For full details please visit artshouse.com.au true to ourselves. - Cheryl Threadgold Repressed femininity explodes onto the stage as Alfie steps out for the first time as Zora. Alfie has had a successful career as part of a comedy double act with ex-partner Grace. She’s always been forced to play the male parts, but now it’s time for her to play the role she feels comfortable in, and for Zora to take centre stage. Set in a haunted regional theatre, in the part of the entertainment industry no one wants to know, creativity fights to survive. Grace is home to a host of characters including Sheryl - the very British venue hostess, Anna Clamber- the Anna Wintour-esque power hungry theatrical agent, Audrey - the Joyce Grenville tribute act, her ex-wife Grace and, of course, Zora's alter ego Alfie. Grace will follow a comedian’s journey right through to her first time on stage identifying as a non-binary performer. It’s about power, love, letting go and daring to believe. The production will travel to the UK for the Brighton Fringe in May and June. Running time: One hour Performance Dates: March 27 – April 1 at 5.30pm ● Comedian Joe Shaffer Location: The Butterfly Club, Downstairs, ■ Joe Shaffer presents a show for animal lov- Carson Place, Off Little Collins St, Melbourne ers and haters with his new show Here's LookBox Office: Tickets $32.00 ($28.00 concesing at You, Squid being presented at Tasma sions). Groups of 6+ ticket $25.00 each. Terrace from April 9 – 22. Bookings: www.thebutterflyclub.com or This is billed as a show all about animals, but 9663 8107. also love and regrets. But mostly animals. - Cheryl Threadgold
Grace
Here’s Looking At You, Squid
CANCER: (June 22- July 22) Lucky Colour: White Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 2-8-2-7 Lotto Numbers: 9-18-27-28-33-35 People in trouble tend to come to you and you could need a lot of patience in handling others.Your own problems could suddenly resolve and most will achieve gains in career affairs. LEO: (July 23-August 22) Lucky Colour: Green Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 3-6-4-3 Lotto Numbers: 2-11-29-33-36-43 If you can keep emotions under control, you will be able to create balance between yourself and others. Mind what you eat and drink and who with. Many will be organizing their careers. News soon will arrive that brings good tidings. VIRGO: (August 23- September 23) Lucky Colour: Blue Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 9-2-7-1 Lotto Numbers: 9-18-27-34-41-45 More variety in travel is indicated. Most people are more inclined to go along with your desires. People you helped in the past should be returning the favours. LIBRA: (September 24- October 23) Lucky Colour: Magenta Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 8-9-5-1 Lotto Numbers: 8-17-26-35-40-44 Travel is indicated and should be very interesting. Luck could be on your side for a change. Avoid becoming attached to the lost causes; wiser to stay on the known path. SCORPIO: (October 24- November 22) Lucky Colour: Pink Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 2-2-4-6 Lotto Numbers: 2-11-20-29-38-42 You should find that most of your problems tend to disappear.A great time for travel or to arrange holidays. Most will need to be more patient with lovers. SAGITTARIUS: (November23- December20) Lucky Colour: Blue Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 1-9-6-4 Lotto Numbers: 1-10-19-33-37-40 Unexpected guests and travel and the wiser will discuss problems with their partner. Success in just about anything you are hoping to achieve. Your past could come back to haunt you. CAPRICORN: (December 21- January 19) Lucky Colour: Dark Green Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 3-4-1-2 Lotto Numbers: 3-4-12-21-30-39 It will be difficult to keep your temper under control. Close relationships will need special care. Travel could be hazardous, so keep your eye on the road. AQUARIUS: (January 20- February 19) Lucky Colour: Mauve Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 3-2-4-8 Lotto Numbers: 3-12-21-30-31-44 A period of major changes. Most will be more adaptable to new ideas and any real effort will be rewarded.A missed opportunity tends to return and money a bit easier to come by. PISCES: (February 20- March 20) Lucky Colour: Blue Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 1-5-6-2 Lotto Numbers: 1-10-19-23-24-32 Lucky breaks through unexpected quarters. Many will have to change their expectations. If in need of advice go to the experts. KERRY KULKENS PS YCHIC LINE 190 2 240 051 or 1800 727 727 CALL COST: $5.50 INC G.S. T. PER MIN. MOB/PAY EXTR A. VISIT KERR Y KULKENS MAGIC SHOP AT 1 693 BURW OOD HWY BELG RAVE PH/FAX (0 3) 9754 4587 W WW .KERRY KULKENS.C OM.AU Like us on Facebook
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Melbourne Arts Monash Gallery John Gollings: The history of the built world. John Gollings is Australia's pre-eminent, and most prolific, photographer of the built environment. For the past 50 years he has been synthesizing his parallel interests in photography and architecture to explore the cultural construction of social places. From sacred rock art sites and ancient temples, to suburban dream homes, iconic monuments and architectural interventions, Gollings's catalogues of images provides a remarkable visual history of how humans have chosen to inhabit their world. The history of the built world is the first major survey of Gollings's photographic practice and offers a much anticipated opportunity to appreciate the full breadth of his unique vision. With academic training in the history of architecture, and a professional grounding in photographic practice, Gollings documents and dramatises architecture with an informed artistic flair. Constantly innovating with photographic technologies, and investigating new architectural subjects with a restless enthusiasm, Gollings's connoisseurship of the built world is unparalleled. Exhibition closes Sunday, March 4. Monash Gallery of Art 860 Ferntree Gully Rd, Wheelers Hill - Peter Kemp
Linden New Art
■ Linden New Art presents the new exhibition Genaivisheh Shtiklech (Tricky Pieces) by Melbourne based artist Nicole Newman. The exhibition is a series of 16 exquisite small-scale sculptures made in Perspex, silver and resin, which represented a culmination and refinement of the artist's broad skillrange The works are engraved with Yiddish phrases and feature silver sculptures of insects, fish and flora. The Yiddish phrases are rich in metaphor and often dark in humour. Exhibition opens Friday February 23 and closes Friday March 9. Linden New Art. Tasma Terrace, 6 Parliament Place, East Melbourne - Peter Kemp
Boroondara Arts The Pearly Shells The Pearly Shells have gained a reputation as Melbourne's premier Jazz/Swing/RnB band with classic style and look that is reminiscent pf a golden age. Supported by the Jen Hawley Jazz Trio. When: Saturday February17 at 6pm-9pm at St James Park, Hawthorn. - Peter Kemp More Melbourne Arts listings on Page 42
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 14, 2018 - Page 11 Melbourne
Observer
Old Time Music Hall
● Rob Pring (left), Suzanne Barton, Matthew Nankivell, Christine Fillis and Vincent Hooper in Old Time Music Hall. ■ Step back in time to the song and supper the stage. rooms of the 1830s when Old Time Music Hall “Music hall is broad, slapstick and vaudevilmakes its Melbourne debut at The Butterfly lian. It taught me how to create a character and Club on March 17 and 18 at 5.30pm. stretch it to believable extremes,” Vincent said. Victorian vaudeville meets Monty Python “You could get a sense of how far you could in this hour of comic capers and rowdy sing- push a joke and, with a music hall audience, I alongs presented by a West Australian troupe discovered you can push it pretty far. with 20 years of touring experience. Ian Toyne, Chris Fillis, Ben Clarke, Rob For more than a century, music hall enter- Pring, Madeline Crofts, Kim Moore and tained people from all walks of life. Joy, senti- Suzanne Barton will star alongside Vincent in mentality, innuendo, and social comment all had the upcoming production. a place in the magical, gas-lit atmosphere of Performance Dates: March 17 and 18 at music hall. 5.30pm Rising musical theatre star Vincent Hooper Venue: The Butterfly Club, Carson Place (off had never heard of the genre when he joined the Little Collins St.), Melbourne troupe more than 10 years ago. But music hall Tickets: Full $32,Concession $28. Group $25 prepared him well for a life on the stage. Book online at thebutterflyclub.com/show/ But music hall prepared him well for a life on old-time-music-hall - Cheryl Threadgold
Hope Song at La Mama ■ Anglesea Performing Arts Ensemble, in partnership with mental health charity SANE Australia and Gandel Philanthropy, are presenting the award-winning play The Hope Song at La Mama Courthouse from February 21-25 after a sold-out season on the Surf Coast. Written by award-winning Janet Brown, the production’s words come directly from seven real people living with mental illness and are candidly shared by seven actors. Janet explains the stories are raw, real and moving. “Audience members could see their brother, mother, best friend, child, colleague or even themselves on the stage,” Janet said. “We want audiences to see people living with mental illness are not just among us, they are us.” The Hope Song is directed by Iris WalsheHowling and Janine McKenzie, and performed by Philip Besancon, Stacey Carmichael, Stuart Errey, Simon Finch, Lina Libroaperto, Libby Stapleton, Nikki Watson and Kieran Tobin.
Melbourne Observations
with Matt Bissett-Johnson
Showbiz News
What’s On NGV Australia Colony:Australia 1770 - 1861/ FrontierWars NGVAustralia will host two complementary exhibitions that explore Australia's complex colonial history and the art that emerged during and in response to this period. Presented concurrently, these two ambitious and large-scale exhibitions Colony: Australia 1770 - 1861 and Colony: Frontier Wars, offer differing perspectives on the colonisation of Australia. Featuring an unprecedented assemblage of loans from major public institutions around Australia , this exhibition is the most comprehensive survey of Australian colonial art to date. The exhibition explores the rich diversity of art, craft and design produced between 1770, the arrival of Lieutenant James Cook and the Endeavour, and in 1861, the year NGV was established. The counterpoint to Colony : Australia 1770 - 1861, Colony: Frontier Wars presents a powerful response to colonisation through a range of historical and contemporary works by indigenous and non-indigenous artists dating from pre-contact times to present day. From the 19th century drawings by esteemed Wurundjeri artist and leader William Barak, to the iridescent LED light boxes of Jonathan Jones, this exhibition reveals how Aboriginal people have responded to the arrival of Europeans with art that is diverse, powerful and compelling. Tony Ellwood, Director, NGV said: "Cook's landing marks the beginning of a history that still has repercussions today. This two-part exhibition presents different perspectives of a shared history with unprecedented depth and scope, featuring a breadth of works never before-seen in Victoria . “In order to realise this ambitious project. We have drawn upon the expertise and scholarship of many individuals from both within and outside the NGV. We are extremely grateful to the Aboriginal Elders and advisory groups who have offered their guidance, expertise and support." Joy Murphy-Wandin , Senior Wurindjeri Elder, said: "I am overwhelmed at the magnitude and integrity og this display: such work and vision is a credit to the curatorial team. “The NGV is to be congratulated for providing a visual truth that will enable the public to see and hopefully understand, First Peoples; heartache, pain and anger. Colony: Australia 1770 - 1861 / Frontier Wars is a must - see for all if we are to realise and action true reconciliation." The Exhibition March 15 - July 16. and Colony: Frontier Wars is on display from March 15 - September 3 at NGV Australia Federation Square. The National Gallery of Victoria St Kilda Rd, Melbourne - Peter Kemp
Shikered!
● Stacey Carmichael Photo: Oliver Watson The stories are stitched together with songs of hope chosen by the interviewees and performed by award-winning musician Kieran Tobin. Four million Australians are affected by complex mental illness including schizophrenia, bipolar, borderline personality disorder, eating disorders, OCD, PTSD and severe depression and anxiety. Despite the prevalence, people living with mental illness can experience a stigma not shared by people living with physical injuries. As one of the people interviewed shares: “If someone had a broken leg, we wouldn’t hide it. I’ve had a broken head.” Performance Season: February 21-25 Venue: La Mama Courthouse, 349 Drummond St., Carlton Bookings: 9347 6948 www.lamama.com.au - Cheryl Threadgold
● Tomi Kalinski (back) and Karen Feldman in Shikered! Photo: Jon Moss. Preview on Page 45.
Page 12 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 14, 2018
Observer Magazine
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Stateside with Gavin Wood in West Hollywood
Hoges back for fourth time
■ Hi everyone, from my suite at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites comes this week's news.
Slow Hand slows down ■ Eric Clapton revealed that he was going deaf while discussing his ongoing health issues and the difficulties of playing guitar in his Seventies during an interview with BBC 2. Clapton noted he plans to keep performing live, but said, "The only thing I'm concerned with now is being in my seventies and being able to be proficient. I mean, I'm going deaf; I've got tinnitus, my hands just about work. I'm hoping that people will come along and see me just because, or maybe more than because I'm a curiosity. I know that is part of it, because it's amazing to myself I'm still here."
Now that’s a knife
■ From the original Crocodile Dundee in 1986, Crocodile Dundee II in 1988 and Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles, watch out for another twist on the Crocodile Dundee franchise, coming soon. Paul Hogan and his partner John Cornell have been in discussion in Bryon Bay for the last few months, compiling a new slant on the successful movies. Managing Director of the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites in West Hollywood, Alan Johnson, has caught up with them in Bryon Bay as his company; Hoteliers International, has resorts around the area.
Rockers roll on
$11 per hour at Walmart ■ Walmart, the largest private employer in the world, has announced that it will raise its starting wage rate for hourly employees in the United States to $11, expand maternity and parental leave benefits, and provide a one-time $1000 cash bonus to some employees. The announcement comes in the aftermath of a sweeping overhaul to Federal tax laws. The company's previous starting wage was $9. "Tax reform gives us the opportunity to be more competitive globally and to accelerate plans for the US,”. Chief Executive Officer, Doug McMillon said. "We are early in the stages of assessing the opportunities tax reform creates for us to invest in our customers and associates and to further strengthen our business, all of which should benefit our shareholders."
● Now that’s a knife: Paul Hogan with Ramada Wesy Hollywood boss Alan Johnson
Oprah for President ■ Seal has lashed out at Oprah Winfrey following her inspirational Golden Globes speech, claiming she knew about the rumours surrounding Harvey Weinstein but did nothing. The talk show queen's widely applauded speech focused on the plight of sexually abused women and the 'MeToo' movement. But the Kiss From A Rose singer accused the media maven of being an example of 'sanctimonious Hollywood'.
Trump immigration
■ Seven immigration agents filed into a 7-Eleven store before dawn and waited for people to go through the checkout line and told arriving customers and a driver delivering beer to wait outside. A Federal inspection was underway. Within 20 minutes, they verified that the cashier had a valid green card and served notice on the owner to produce hiring records in three days that deal with employees' immigration status. The well-rehearsed scene, executed with quiet efficiency in Los Angeles' Korea town, played out at about 100 7-Eleven stores in 17 states and the District of Columbia, a rolling operation that officials called the largest immigration action against employers under Donald Trump's presidency. The employment audits and interviews with store workers could lead to criminal charges or fines. And they appeared to open a new front in Trump's expansion of immigration enforcement, which has already brought a 40 per cent increase in deportation arrests and pledges to spend billions of dollars on a border wall with Mexico.
Misconduct claims
GavinWood
From my Suite at the Ramada Plaza Complex on Santa Monica Blvd
■ A battle has broken out in France between campaigners against sexual harassment and a group of prominent women who argue overzealous misconduct allegations threaten the country's embrace of sexual freedom. Film star Catherine Deneuve and more than 100 French women published a letter in the newspaper Le Monde defending the lustful advances of their male compatriots, and denouncing what they call "puritanism" of the #MeToo campaign against sexual harassment that has taken root in the US and other countries since the publication of allegations against Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein.
Sad losses ■ Ray Thomas, a founding member of the British rock group the Moody Blues, died at his home in Surrey, south of London, months before the band is to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. He was 76. His music label, Esoteric Recordings/Cherry Red Records, announced his death. No cause was given, but Mr Thomas disclosed in 2014 that he had prostate cancer. ■ Jerry Van Dyke, who after decades in show business finally emerged from the shadow of his older brother, Dick, with an Emmy-nominated role in the long-running ABC sitcom Coach, died at his ranch in Arkansas. He was 86. Jerry's wife, Shirley Ann Jones, who confirmed the death, said his health had deteriorated since a traffic accident in 2015. ■ French pop singer France Gall, who collected hits and sold millions of albums over a four-decade career, has died. She was 70. Her agent Genevieve Salama told The Associated Press that the singer, with her signature blond bangs, died of cancer.
Alerts were too late
■ An emergency alert was not sent to people in Santa Barbara County who were under voluntary and mandatory evacuation orders until destructive flooding had already hit Montecito, California, officials say. The cell phone alert was sent to those registered in the area at about 3.50am but it is not yet clear how many people actually received it. Santa Barbara County Emergency Manager Jeff Gater said the push alert was sent after conditions began to deteriorate. Many warnings had been circulated by the county on social media and on its website and email systems. But by the time the push alert was sent, mud was pouring quickly downhill with boulders and debris, killing people and destroying homes. Officials have said at least 17 people died and more than 100 homes were ruined by the devastation. Several reports note that many of those who knew they were under mandatory evacuation did not heed the warnings. One man told the Los Angeles Times: "I think all of us have learned our lessons on this one. We were all bad children and ignored the warnings." He added, "Mother Nature came back and dealt us a big blow."
■ Motorhead guitarist "Fast" Eddie Clarke died at the age of 67 during a hospital stay for a bought of pneumonia. Lemmy Kilmister and drummer Phil Taylor both died in 2015, making Clarke the last surviving member of the band's classic trio. "Such a shock," long time guitarist Phil Campbell wrote on Facebook. "He will be remembered for his iconic riffs and was a true rock n roller.
Mention ‘Observer’
● Eric Clapton
www.gavinwood.us
■ If you are considering a move to Los Angeles or just coming over for a holiday then I have got a special deal for you. We would love to see you at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites, 8585 Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood. I have secured a terrific holiday deal for readers of the Melbourne Observer and The Local Paper. Please mention 'Melbourne Observer' when you book and you will receive the 'Special Rate of the Day'. Please contact: Joanna at info@ramadaweho.com Happy Holidays, Gavin Wood
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Melbourne Obser ver - Wednesday, February 14, 2018 - Page 13
Melbourne
Confidential
Selby, friends at MLC Kew
Talk is cheap, gossip is priceless
Heart-warming Annie opens at CPAC
● The cast of Annie takes a bow at the Cardinia Arts and Cultural Centre. Photo: Wayne Smith ■ Leaping lizards! The heart-warming musi- affection. The talented orphans in Cast B are terrific, cal Annie plays at the Cardinia Arts and Cultural Centre until February 24, and book quickly including Lily Strickland (July), Amelia Wilkinson (Kate), Jessica Poldrugovac (Duffie), as tickets are selling fast. Annie is presented by the Cardinia Perform- Emily Barron (Tessie) and Summer Bush ing Arts Company (CPAC) under the expert di- (Molly) and a wonderful Children’s Ensemble. rection of Lee Geraghty. Greg Whitehead is an imposing and personYoung Annie and her mates live in an or- able Oliver Warbucks, Hayley Fyfield is dephanage run by nasty Miss Hannigan. Annie is lightful as Grace Farrell, and Libbie Rogers chosen to live in the home of Oliver Warbucks, (Miss Hannigan) seems over-dressed for workwho helps Annie search for her parents. The ing in the orphanage, but delivers her role with President of America, Franklin D Roosevelt, con- force tributes to the happy ending. Joel Norman-Hade (Rooster) brings strong Lee Geraghty and her team have done com- energy to the stage as Rooster, with Cathy Lord mendable work in casting 90 performers of var- a softer version of Lily. Andrew Guthrie comied ages, including two casts of children, to mands the stage as Roosevelt, with powerfully present a good show. Bravo Margot Sephton delivered dialogue from his wheelchair. for co-ordinating 90 costumes. Also enjoyed were performances from Nik Robert Mulholland’s choreography is always first-class and the Cast B young performers are Grbic (Burt Healey), The Boylan Sisters impressively well-rehearsed. A nice tap routine (Miranda Barron, Caitlin Dempsey, Nina Kempinger), Clive Rogers (Drake) and the enfrom the orphans, too. ● Maya Corbett with Butch Musical director Ben Heels’s orchestra ergetic Adult Ensemble, including Mrs Greer achieves a great sound when rendering the fa- and the Ventriloquist. Congratulations to Lee and all at CPAC. miliar tunes. Performance Details: Until February 24 I saw Cast B, and Jade Cropp played Annie Venue: Cardinia Arts and Cultural Centre, (alternating with Maya Corbett). Jade’s lovely singing voice enhances her performance, and Lakeside Boulevard, Pakenham. Bookings: www.cardiniaperformingarts.com full marks for not missing a beat when singing - Review by Cheryl Threadgold Tomorrow, despite canine Sandy’s exuberant
Kosher Bacon
● Michael Shafar in Kosher Bacon ■ Since leaving a career in law, Michael Shafar has made a name for himself as one of the fastest rising stars in Australian comedy, reaching the RAW Comedy National Final in 2016, selling out his debut season at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and touring internationally. Building on from the success of his sold out Jewish-ish shows, Michael is back to serve up Kosher Bacon. “It's a show about things that make no sense, like how my local politician used to be the DJ at all of our friends' bar mitzvah parties. We thought that was normal." Show dates: Mar. 29- Apr. 22 at, 8:15pm (7:15pm Sun, no Weds). Venue: Trades Hall, 54 Victoria Street, Carlton Tickets: $20-25 Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au - Cheryl Threadgold
● Butch (Sandy) and Jade Cropp (Annie) in Annie by CPAC.
● Kathryn Selby (left), Clancy Newman and Grace Clifford present Selby and Friends. ■ Selby and Friends celebrates chamber music masterpieces by Beethoven in its 2018 season-opener. Kathryn Selby, Artistic Director and pianist, welcomes brilliant young Australianviolinist Grace Cliffordand American virtuoso cellist Clancy Newman to the stage in a six-concert tour. A performance will be presented in Melbourne on Wednesday, March 14 at 7.30pm at the Tatoulis Auditorium, Methodist Ladies’ College, Kew. All works on the program were chosen by the Selby and Friends’ audience during 2017. Over the past four seasons, a high point of every year was a Selby and Friends ‘Basically Beethoven’ concert exploring the great composer’s chamber music. Grace Clifford has been a regular guest artist with Selby and Friends since her performances as a Development Artist at the age of 14. She is an ABC Young Performer of the Year Award recipient, and performed the Bruch Violin Concerto with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra during a break from her studies at the famed Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia. Cellist Clancy Newman, first-prize winner of the prestigious Walter W. Naumburg International Competition and recipient of anAvery Fisher Career Grant, is also a composer in his own right, and has premiered several of his own works with Selby and Friends. He returns frequently to Australia from the USA to perform with the series. Beethoven by Ballot is a glimpse into the composer’s diverse chamber music oeuvre. The program’s headliners include the ‘Spring’ Sonata for violin and piano, which broke new ground at the turn of the 18th century with its sweeping lyricism, and the virtuosic ‘Archduke’Trio, at the top of many an audience wish-list. Composed in 1811, the virtuosic Archduke is dedicated to benefactor Archduke Rudolph ofAustria, and it is a fitting standout in Beethoven’s “heroic” phase. Selby and Friends was founded byArtistic Director Kathryn Selby. Now in its 12th season, the Selby and Friends touring performance series presents concerts with a rotating guest ensemble of noted chamber musicians, both Australian and international. Kathryn Selby remarks on the Beethoven by Ballot program: “Asking the audience to be involved with choosing their beloved Beethoven chamber works to create a program for them was a wonderful enterprise. “The S and F audience is an enthusiastic and enlightened group of music lovers who have chosen for us a gorgeous selection and I’m thrilled to be kicking off the 2018 Season once again with the hugely talented Grace and the inspirational Clancy.” Tickets and 2018 subscription packages are on sale now via the Selby and Friends website or by calling 1300 511 099. Melbourne performance: March 14 at 7.30pm at the Tatoulis Auditorium, Methodist Ladies’College, Kew. - Cheryl Threadgold
Page 14 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 14, 2018
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 14, 2018 - Page 15
Victoria Pictorial
Northcote
● Northcote football team. Circa 1940-41.
● Carter’s Arms Hotel. Near Separation St corner. Circa 1910.
● Entrance to Northcote, from Clifton Hill
● The Savings Bank, Northcote. 1900-1930.
● High St, Northcote
● Northcote State School
● Northcote Football Club (VFA). 1933.
● High Street, Northcote.
Page 16 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 14, 2018
Observer Magazine
■ A new film on the life of Gloria Grahame will be released in Australia on March 1. It is based on a book written by her former boyfriend PeterTurner and titled Film Stars Don't Die in Liverpool. The cast includes Annette Benning, Jamie Bell and Julie Waters. I have always been fascinated by Gloria Graham and she lived a remarkable life. Gloria Grahame Hallward was born in Los Angeles, California, in 1923. Her father was an architect and her mother was a British stage actress and acting teacher. Her elder sister later married the actor John Mitchum, who was Robert Mitchum's brother. Gloria was taught acting by her mother and got a contract with MGM Studios at the age of 21. Gloria's first film was a supporting role in the drama Blonde Fever in 1944. She was loaned out to Liberty Films and made a big impression as ‘Violet’ in the classic It's A Wonderful Life playing opposite James Stewart. Gloria's career over the next few years was moving fairly slowly but in 1947 she was cast in It Happened in Brooklyn with Frank Sinatra and Jimmy Durante. This was followed by a wonderful role as ‘Ginny Tremaine’ in Crossfire and received an Academy Award nomination. As Gloria moved into the 1950s her career
Whatever Happened To ... Gloria Grahame
By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM
took off with some great films such as In A Lonely Place, The Greatest Show on Earth and Macao. She won the Academy Award for her performance in The Bad and the Beautiful. Gloria had plastic surgery on her top lip and stuffed cotton under it to make it look fuller. (I thought she looked great). She was cast in the musical Oklahoma as ‘Ado Annie’ even though she was tone deaf. Her rendition of the song I Can't Say No is a highlight of the film. The director wanted the character to be comical and Gloria delivered the goods. Gloria was married four times during her life and had four children. Her fourth marriage caused a scandal when she married her stepson
● Gloria Grahame
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Anthony Ray. Gloria was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1974 and went into remission. She continued to perform in stage plays in the US and the UK. Whilst performing in a play in England in 1981 she took ill. Apparently, Gloria wanted to live her remaining days in Liverpool but her children travelled to the UK and brought their mother back to the United States on a plane. Upon arrival she was immediately admitted to St Vincent's Hospital in New York City and died there several hours later at the age of 57. Gloria Grahame was in more than thirty films during her career but loved working in stage productions. Her ‘bucket list’ included her desire to perform in a Shakespeare play with the Royal Shakespeare Company. Still, her film credits were outstanding and winning the Academy Award for best Supporting Actress was well deserved. Kevin Trask Kevin can be heard on 3AW Mike Till Midnight - Saturday at 8.10pm The Time Tunnel - on Remember When Sundays at 9.10pm And on 96.5 FM That's Entertainment - Sundays at 12 Noon
Largest-ever cruise ship nears completion ■ When Royal Caribbean Line’s gargantuan new Symphony of the Seas slips out of the yard in which she is being built in France this April, and heads to Barcelona for her first season of sailing the Western Mediterranean, there’ll be enough food and drinks go aboard during just one week’s cruising to slake the hunger and thirst of many a small town. Because as the world’s largestever passenger ship, Symphony of the Seas will scale-in at over 230,000 tonnes and carry up to 6870 passengers. And all those will need to be fed three times daily, as well as with anytime snacks around the clock, in some twenty dining venues ranging from one that seats just sixteen for very special occasions, to others seating diners by the score. Plus there’ll be nearly 2200 crew ● Symphony of the Seas, the world’s largest-ever cruise ship, who will need to be fed and watered nears completion in France prior to her launch in April around the clock as well. and his obsession with Queen Victoria, So it is little wonder her shopping herself just 19 at the time, quickly belist for that first sailing, and all subsecame the talk of the UK, particularly quent weekly sailings in the Mediteras he broke into the Palace on at least ranean, and then from October in the four occasions, and twice was found Caribbean, is as gargantuan as the sitting filthy, as he seldom if ever ship herself. washed, on the royal throne and was Because it includes 8900kg of arrested. chicken, 8300 kilos of beef, 3200 of And on a further occasion he was fish, 5400 portions of lobster tails and discovered hiding under a sofa in the 10,000 hot dog frankfurters, 6700kg Queen’s sitting room at midnight, and of potatoes, 4000 of tomatoes, 48,000 on yet another snacking in a royal eggs, 20,000-plus kilos of fruit and apartment on food he’d stolen from vegetables, enough ice cream to fill the palace kitchen. He was briefly 21,000 cones, and 860kg of coffee. imprisoned on each occasion, despite And for those with a thirst, 33,000 pleas by his father to the courts that he bottles and cans of beer, 17,000 of soft was insane. drinks, over 2000 bottles of spirits, and On discharge from his final impris6100 bottles of wine – all for just one onment, Jones turned to burglary and week of holidaymaking. was deported to Australia where he All these numbers, together with changed his name from Edward to 10,300 rolls of toilet paper, will be kept Thomas Jones, and actually got a job topped-up for every weekly sailing in with David Ellis as the Perth Town Crier. However he the Mediterranean and Caribbean after that inaugural week – with ages dow, and had pinched the royal knick- slipped into alcoholism, moved to and nationalities of guests monitored ers and whatever else when rummag- Victoria, and on Boxing Day 1893 to ensure all cultures and dietary needs ing through Victoria’s dressing room. when drinking on a bridge in are catered for. And he further shocked police by Bairnsdale, fell off drunk and died revealing that he was just 14 years of when landing head-first four metres age, and had dodged apprehension on below. He is buried in an unmarked grave several prior occasions when con■ An intruder who broke into fronted by staff, telling them that he in the Bairnsdale Cemetery. A memoBuckingham Palace in 1838 and was was a palace chimney sweep and rial plaque in his adopted name of caught sitting on the royal throne with which they believed because of his Thomas Jones, incorrectly states that pieces of Queen Victoria’s underwear unkempt condition in body and cloth- he had been deported for “breaching stuffed into his trousers, told police that ing. security at Windsor Castle” rather he had got in through an unlocked winThe bizarre story of Edward Jones than Buckingham Palace.
Struth
Royal stalker
OK. With John O’Keefe $16.2 mil. debt alleged ■ Golden haired boy of Sydney real estate, John McGrath, has emerged as a massive gambler allegedly owing William Hill a whopping $ 16.2 million. Just three years ago McGrath was a panellist on Shark Tank TV show on Network Ten where he handed out business advice to aspiring entrepreneurs and buying stock in start-ups that took his fancy . The next season he was replaced on the program. His gambling debt has been described as “Sydney's worst kept secret” and will unfold once William Hill takes legal action. Yet to be resolved is the fate of the publicly listed McGrath Real Estate national franchise group.
Playboy mansion sold ■ Following the death of Hugh Heffner, his mansion was sold for a reported $100,000 million. Now the cracks are starting to appear and there's a huge quote to repair the plumbing, eradicate termites and fix dry rot. Maybe time to throw a few 'pay at the door' parties. On the subject of wild parties, news from the Gold Coast is East Nightlife has gone belly- up into liquidation. East was a notorious hang-out for party goers.
Lewd act alleged ■ Australian musician Kevin J. Callinan has been charged for allegedly committing a lewd act while on stage at the ARIA Awards last November. The case will be heard in March. In the past Callinan has collaborated with Jimmy Barnes, Tim and Neil Finn.
INXS garage sale ■ Kirk Pengilly had a stocktake of his guitars and decided to flog some of them . Guitars for sale include those he used in INXS stage and studio performances. Sotherby’sAuctions have got the gig, so if you want to own a part of Aussie rock history put in a bid.
New Cup sponsor
■ Luxury auto marque Lexus is expected to pick up sponsorship of the 2018 Melbourne Cup. From now on it’s safe to refer to the race that stops a nation as the Lexus Melbourne Cup.
Another one bits the dust ■ Local classical music magazine Limelight (formerly ABC 24 Hours) has called in receivers and the March issue will be the last unless a white knight can be found. Current owner and publisher Andrew Batt-Rawden has been propping up Limelight financially for past six years and threw in the towel last week. Discussions with prospective owners are showing signs of optimism. - John O’Keefe
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 14, 2018 - Page 17
Observer Classic Books
The Haunted Man and the Ghost’s Bargain “I am sensible that you have been interested in me, and I say I am much obliged to you. What more would you have?” Her work fell on her lap, as she still looked at him walking to and fro with an intolerant air, and stopping now and then. “I say again, I am much obliged to you. Why weaken my sense of what is your due in obligation, by preferring enormous claims upon me? Trouble, sorrow, affliction, adversity! One might suppose I had been dying a score of deaths here!” “Do you believe, Mr. Edmund,” she asked, rising and going nearer to him, “that I spoke of the poor people of the house, with any reference to myself? To me?” laying her hand upon her bosom with a simple and innocent smile of astonishment. “Oh! I think nothing about it, my good creature,” he returned. “I have had an indisposition, which your solicitude — observe! I say solicitude — makes a great deal more of, than it merits; and it’s over, and we can’t perpetuate it.” He coldly took a book, and sat down at the table. She watched him for a little while, until her smile was quite gone, and then, returning to where her basket was, said gently: “Mr. Edmund, would you rather be alone?” “There is no reason why I should detain you here,” he replied. “Except —” said Milly, hesitating, and showing her work. “Oh! the curtain,” he answered, with a supercilious laugh. “That’s not worth staying for.” She made up the little packet again, and put it in her basket. Then, standing before him with such an air of patient entreaty that he could not choose but look at her, she said: “If you should want me, I will come back willingly. When you did want me, I was quite happy to come; there was no merit in it. I think you must be afraid, that, now you are getting well, I may be troublesome to you; but I should not have been, indeed. I should have come no longer than your weakness and confinement lasted. You owe me nothing; but it is right that you should deal as justly by me as if I was a lady — even the very lady that you love; and if you suspect me of meanly making much of the little I have tried to do to comfort your sick room, you do yourself more wrong than ever you can do me. That is why I am sorry. That is why I am very sorry.” If she had been as passionate as she was quiet, as indignant as she was calm, as angry in her look as she was gentle, as loud of tone as she was low and clear, she might have left no sense of her departure in the room, compared with that which fell upon the lonely student when she went away. He was gazing drearily upon the place where she had been, when Redlaw came out of his concealment, and came to the door. “When sickness lays its hand on you again,” he said, looking fiercely back at him, “— may it be soon! — Die here! Rot here!” “What have you done?” returned the other, catching at his cloak. “What change have you wrought in me? What curse have you brought upon me? Give me back MYself!” “Give me back myself!” exclaimed Redlaw like a madman. “I am infected! I am infectious! I am charged with poison for my own mind, and the minds of all mankind. Where I felt interest, compassion, sympathy, I am turning into stone. Selfishness and ingratitude spring up in my blighting footsteps. I am only so much less base than the wretches whom I make so, that in the moment of their transformation I can hate them.” As he spoke — the young man still holding to his cloak — he cast him off, and struck him: then, wildly hurried out into the night air where the wind was blowing, the snow falling, the cloud-drift sweeping on, the moon dimly shining; and where, blowing in the wind, falling with the snow, drifting with the clouds, shining in the moonlight, and heavily looming in the darkness, were the Phantom’s words, “The gift that I have given, you shall give again, go where you will!” Whither he went, he neither knew nor cared, so that he avoided company. The change he felt within him made the busy streets a desert, and himself a desert, and the multitude around him,
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“The woman’s out.” “I know she is. Where is the old man with the white hair, and his son?” “The woman’s husband, d’ye mean?” inquired the boy. “Ay. Where are those two?” “Out. Something’s the matter, somewhere. They were fetched out in a hurry, and told me to stop here.” “Come with me,” said the Chemist, “and I’ll give you money.” “Come where? and how much will you give?” “I’ll give you more shillings than you ever saw, and bring you back soon. Do you know your way to where you came from?” “You let me go,” returned the boy, suddenly twisting out of his grasp. “I’m not a going to take you there. Let me be, or I’ll heave some fire at you!” He was down before it, and ready, with his savage little hand, to pluck the burning coals out. What the Chemist had felt, in observing the effect of his charmed influence stealing over those with whom he came in contact, was not nearly equal to the cold vague terror with which he saw this baby-monster put it at defiance. It chilled his blood to look on the immovable impenetrable thing, in the likeness of a child, with its sharp malignant face turned up to his, and its almost infant hand, ready at the bars. “Listen, boy!” he said. “You shall take me where you please, so that you take me where the people are very miserable or very wicked. I want to do them good, and not to harm them. You shall have money, as I have told you, and I will bring you back. Get up! Come quickly!” He made a hasty step towards the door, afraid of her returning. “Will you let me walk by myself, and never hold me, nor yet touch me?” said the boy, slowly withdrawing the hand with which he threatened, and beginning to get up. “I will!” “And let me go, before, behind, or anyways I like?” “I will!” “Give me some money first, then, and go.” The Chemist laid a few shillings, one by one, in his extended hand. To count them was beyond the boy’s knowledge, but he said “one,” every time, and avariciously looked at each as it was given, and at the donor. He had nowhere to put Charles Dickens them, out of his hand, but in his mouth; and he in their manifold endurances and ways of life, a tively avoiding this, and going round it, he looked put them there. mighty waste of sand, which the winds tossed in at the window. At first, he thought that there Redlaw then wrote with his pencil on a leaf of into unintelligible heaps and made a ruinous was no one there, and that the blaze was red- his pocket-book, that the boy was with him; and confusion of. Those traces in his breast which dening only the old beams in the ceiling and the laying it on the table, signed to him to follow. the Phantom had told him would “die out soon,” dark walls; but peering in more narrowly, he Keeping his rags together, as usual, the boy comwere not, as yet, so far upon their way to death, saw the object of his search coiled asleep be- plied, and went out with his bare head and nabut that he understood enough of what he was, fore it on the floor. He passed quickly to the ked feet into the winter night. and what he made of others, to desire to be door, opened it, and went in. Preferring not to depart by the iron gate by which alone. The creature lay in such a fiery heat, that, as the he had entered, where they were in danger of This put it in his mind — he suddenly bethought Chemist stooped to rouse him, it scorched his meeting her whom he so anxiously avoided, the himself, as he was going along, of the boy who head. So soon as he was touched, the boy, not Chemist led the way, through some of those pashad rushed into his room. And then he recol- half awake, clutching his rags together with the sages among which the boy had lost himself, lected, that of those with whom he had commu- instinct of flight upon him, half rolled and half and by that portion of the building where he lived, nicated since the Phantom’s disappearance, that ran into a distant corner of the room, where, to a small door of which he had the key. When boy alone had shown no sign of being changed. heaped upon the ground, he struck his foot out to they got into the street, he stopped to ask his Monstrous and odious as the wild thing was to defend himself. guide — who instantly retreated from him — if him, he determined to seek it out, and prove if “Get up!” said the Chemist. “You have not for- he knew where they were. this were really so; and also to seek it with an- gotten me?” The savage thing looked here and there, and at other intention, which came into his thoughts at “You let me alone!” returned the boy. “This is length, nodding his head, pointed in the directhe same time. the woman’s house — not yours.” tion he designed to take. Redlaw going on at So, resolving with some difficulty where he The Chemist’s steady eye controlled him some- once, he followed, something less suspiciously; was, he directed his steps back to the old col- what, or inspired him with enough submission to shifting his money from his mouth into his hand, lege, and to that part of it where the general be raised upon his feet, and looked at. and back again into his mouth, and stealthily porch was, and where, alone, the pavement was “Who washed them, and put those bandages rubbing it bright upon his shreds of dress, as he worn by the tread of the students’ feet. where they were bruised and cracked?” asked went along. The keeper’s house stood just within the iron the Chemist, pointing to their altered state. Three times, in their progress, they were side gates, forming a part of the chief quadrangle. “The woman did.” by side. Three times they stopped, being side by There was a little cloister outside, and from that “And is it she who has made you cleaner in the side. Three times the Chemist glanced down at sheltered place he knew he could look in at the face, too?” his face, and shuddered as it forced upon him window of their ordinary room, and see who “Yes, the woman.” one reflection. was within. The iron gates were shut, but his Redlaw asked these questions to attract his eyes The first occasion was when they were crosshand was familiar with the fastening, and draw- towards himself, and with the same intent now ing an old churchyard, and Redlaw stopped ing it back by thrusting in his wrist between the held him by the chin, and threw his wild hair among the graves, utterly at a loss how to conbars, he passed through softly, shut it again, and back, though he loathed to touch him. The boy nect them with any tender, softening, or concrept up to the window, crumbling the thin crust watched his eyes keenly, as if he thought it need- solatory thought. of snow with his feet. ful to his own defence, not knowing what he The second was, when the breaking forth of the The fire, to which he had directed the boy last might do next; and Redlaw could see well that moon induced him to look up at the Heavens, night, shining brightly through the glass, made no change came over him. where he saw her in her glory, surrounded by a an illuminated place upon the ground. Instinc “Where are they?” he inquired. Continued on Page 18
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Observer Classic Books From Page 17 host of stars he still knew by the names and histories which human science has appended to them; but where he saw nothing else he had been wont to see, felt nothing he had been wont to feel, in looking up there, on a bright night. The third was when he stopped to listen to a plaintive strain of music, but could only hear a tune, made manifest to him by the dry mechanism of the instruments and his own ears, with no address to any mystery within him, without a whisper in it of the past, or of the future, powerless upon him as the sound of last year’s running water, or the rushing of last year’s wind. At each of these three times, he saw with horror that, in spite of the vast intellectual distance between them, and their being unlike each other in all physical respects, the expression on the boy’s face was the expression on his own. They journeyed on for some time — now through such crowded places, that he often looked over his shoulder thinking he had lost his guide, but generally finding him within his shadow on his other side; now by ways so quiet, that he could have counted his short, quick, naked footsteps coming on behind — until they arrived at a ruinous collection of houses, and the boy touched him and stopped. “In there!” he said, pointing out one house where there were shattered lights in the windows, and a dim lantern in the doorway, with “Lodgings for Travellers” painted on it. Redlaw looked about him; from the houses to the waste piece of ground on which the houses stood, or rather did not altogether tumble down, unfenced, undrained, unlighted, and bordered by a sluggish ditch; from that, to the sloping line of arches, part of some neighbouring viaduct or bridge with which it was surrounded, and which lessened gradually towards them, until the last but one was a mere kennel for a dog, the last a plundered little heap of bricks; from that, to the child, close to him, cowering and trembling with the cold, and limping on one little foot, while he coiled the other round his leg to warm it, yet staring at all these things with that frightful likeness of expression so apparent in his face, that Redlaw started from him. “In there!” said the boy, pointing out the house again. “I’ll wait.” “Will they let me in?” asked Redlaw. “Say you’re a doctor,” he answered with a nod. “There’s plenty ill here.” Looking back on his way to the house-door, Redlaw saw him trail himself upon the dust and crawl within the shelter of the smallest arch, as if he were a rat. He had no pity for the thing, but he was afraid of it; and when it looked out of its den at him, he hurried to the house as a retreat. “Sorrow, wrong, and trouble,” said the Chemist, with a painful effort at some more distinct remembrance, “at least haunt this place darkly. He can do no harm, who brings forgetfulness of such things here!” With these words, he pushed the yielding door, and went in. There was a woman sitting on the stairs, either asleep or forlorn, whose head was bent down on her hands and knees. As it was not easy to pass without treading on her, and as she was perfectly regardless of his near approach, he stopped, and touched her on the shoulder. Looking up, she showed him quite a young face, but one whose bloom and promise were all swept away, as if the haggard winter should unnaturally kill the spring. With little or no show of concern on his account, she moved nearer to the wall to leave him a wider passage. “What are you?” said Redlaw, pausing, with his hand upon the broken stair-rail. “What do you think I am?” she answered, showing him her face again. He looked upon the ruined Temple of God, so lately made, so soon disfigured; and something, which was not compassion — for the springs in which a true compassion for such miseries has its rise, were dried up in his breast — but which was nearer to it, for the moment, than any feeling that had lately struggled into the darkening, but not yet wholly darkened, night of his mind — mingled a touch of softness with his next words. “I am come here to give relief, if I can,” he said. “Are you thinking of any wrong?” She frowned at him, and then laughed; and then her laugh prolonged itself into a shivering sigh, as she dropped her head again, and hid her fingers in her hair. “Are you thinking of a wrong?” he asked once more.
“I am thinking of my life,” she said, with a monetary look at him. He had a perception that she was one of many, and that he saw the type of thousands, when he saw her, drooping at his feet. “What are your parents?” he demanded. “I had a good home once. My father was a gardener, far away, in the country.” “Is he dead?” “He’s dead to me. All such things are dead to me. You a gentleman, and not know that!” She raised her eyes again, and laughed at him. “Girl!” said Redlaw, sternly, “before this death, of all such things, was brought about, was there no wrong done to you? In spite of all that you can do, does no remembrance of wrong cleave to you? Are there not times upon times when it is misery to you?” So little of what was womanly was left in her appearance, that now, when she burst into tears, he stood amazed. But he was more amazed, and much disquieted, to note that in her awakened recollection of this wrong, the first trace of her old humanity and frozen tenderness appeared to show itself. He drew a little off, and in doing so, observed that her arms were black, her face cut, and her bosom bruised. “What brutal hand has hurt you so?” he asked. “My own. I did it myself!” she answered quickly. “It is impossible.” “I’ll swear I did! He didn’t touch me. I did it to myself in a passion, and threw myself down here. He wasn’t near me. He never laid a hand upon me!” In the white determination of her face, confronting him with this untruth, he saw enough of the last perversion and distortion of good surviving in that miserable breast, to be stricken with remorse that he had ever come near her. “Sorrow, wrong, and trouble!” he muttered, turning his fearful gaze away. “All that connects her with the state from which she has fallen, has those roots! In the name of God, let me go by!” Afraid to look at her again, afraid to touch her, afraid to think of having sundered the last thread by which she held upon the mercy of Heaven, he gathered his cloak about him, and glided swiftly up the stairs. Opposite to him, on the landing, was a door, which stood partly open, and which, as he ascended, a man with a candle in his hand, came forward from within to shut. But this man, on seeing him, drew back, with much emotion in his manner, and, as if by a sudden impulse, mentioned his name aloud. In the surprise of such a recognition there, he stopped, endeavouring to recollect the wan and startled face. He had no time to consider it, for, to his yet greater amazement, old Philip came out of the room, and took him by the hand. “Mr. Redlaw,” said the old man, “this is like you, this is like you, sir! you have heard of it, and have come after us to render any help you can. Ah, too late, too late!” Redlaw, with a bewildered look, submitted to be led into the room. A man lay there, on a trucklebed, and William Swidger stood at the bedside. “Too late!” murmured the old man, looking wistfully into the Chemist’s face; and the tears stole down his cheeks. “That’s what I say, father,” interposed his son in a low voice. “That’s where it is, exactly. To keep as quiet as ever we can while he’s a dozing, is the only thing to do. You’re right, father!” Redlaw paused at the bedside, and looked down on the figure that was stretched upon the mattress. It was that of a man, who should have been in the vigour of his life, but on whom it was not likely the sun would ever shine again. The vices of his forty or fifty years’ career had so branded him, that, in comparison with their effects upon his face, the heavy hand of Time upon the old man’s face who watched him had been merciful and beautifying. “Who is this?” asked the Chemist, looking round. “My son George, Mr. Redlaw,” said the old man, wringing his hands. “My eldest son, George, who was more his mother’s pride than all the rest!” Redlaw’s eyes wandered from the old man’s grey head, as he laid it down upon the bed, to the person who had recognised him, and who had kept aloof, in the remotest corner of the room. He seemed to be about his own age; and although he knew no such hopeless decay and broken man as he appeared to be, there was something in the turn of his figure, as he stood with his back towards him, and now went out at the door, that made him pass his hand uneasily
across his brow. “William,” he said in a gloomy whisper, “who is that man?” “Why you see, sir,” returned Mr. William, “that’s what I say, myself. Why should a man ever go and gamble, and the like of that, and let himself down inch by inch till he can’t let himself down any lower!” “Has HE done so?” asked Redlaw, glancing after him with the same uneasy action as before. “Just exactly that, sir,” returned William Swidger, “as I’m told. He knows a little about medicine, sir, it seems; and having been wayfaring towards London with my unhappy brother that you see here,” Mr. William passed his coatsleeve across his eyes, “and being lodging up stairs for the night — what I say, you see, is that strange companions come together here sometimes — he looked in to attend upon him, and came for us at his request. What a mournful spectacle, sir! But that’s where it is. It’s enough to kill my father!” Redlaw looked up, at these words, and, recalling where he was and with whom, and the spell he carried with him — which his surprise had obscured — retired a little, hurriedly, debating with himself whether to shun the house that moment, or remain. Yielding to a certain sullen doggedness, which it seemed to be a part of his condition to struggle with, he argued for remaining. “Was it only yesterday,” he said, “when I observed the memory of this old man to be a tissue of sorrow and trouble, and shall I be afraid, tonight, to shake it? Are such remembrances as I can drive away, so precious to this dying man that I need fear for HIM? No! I’ll stay here.” But he stayed in fear and trembling none the less for these words; and, shrouded in his black cloak with his face turned from them, stood away from the bedside, listening to what they said, as if he felt himself a demon in the place. “Father!” murmured the sick man, rallying a little from stupor. “My boy! My son George!” said old Philip. “You spoke, just now, of my being mother’s favourite, long ago. It’s a dreadful thing to think now, of long ago!” “No, no, no;” returned the old man. “Think of it. Don’t say it’s dreadful. It’s not dreadful to me, my son.” “It cuts you to the heart, father.” For the old man’s tears were falling on him. “Yes, yes,” said Philip, “so it does; but it does me good. It’s a heavy sorrow to think of that time, but it does me good, George. Oh, think of it too, think of it too, and your heart will be softened more and more! Where’s my son William? William, my boy, your mother loved him dearly to the last, and with her latest breath said, ‘Tell him I forgave him, blessed him, and prayed for him.’ Those were her words to me. I have never forgotten them, and I’m eighty-seven!” “Father!” said the man upon the bed, “I am dying, I know. I am so far gone, that I can hardly speak, even of what my mind most runs on. Is there any hope for me beyond this bed?” “There is hope,” returned the old man, “for all who are softened and penitent. There is hope for all such. Oh!” he exclaimed, clasping his hands and looking up, “I was thankful, only yesterday, that I could remember this unhappy son when he was an innocent child. But what a comfort it is, now, to think that even God himself has that remembrance of him!” Redlaw spread his hands upon his face, and shrank, like a murderer. “Ah!” feebly moaned the man upon the bed. “The waste since then, the waste of life since then!” “But he was a child once,” said the old man. “He played with children. Before he lay down on his bed at night, and fell into his guiltless rest, he said his prayers at his poor mother’s knee. I have seen him do it, many a time; and seen her lay his head upon her breast, and kiss him. Sorrowful as it was to her and me, to think of this, when he went so wrong, and when our hopes and plans for him were all broken, this gave him still a hold upon us, that nothing else could have given. Oh, Father, so much better than the fathers upon earth! Oh, Father, so much more afflicted by the errors of Thy children! take this wanderer back! Not as he is, but as he was then, let him cry to Thee, as he has so often seemed to cry to us!” As the old man lifted up his trembling hands, the son, for whom he made the supplication, laid his sinking head against him for support and
comfort, as if he were indeed the child of whom he spoke. When did man ever tremble, as Redlaw trembled, in the silence that ensued! He knew it must come upon them, knew that it was coming fast. “My time is very short, my breath is shorter,” said the sick man, supporting himself on one arm, and with the other groping in the air, “and I remember there is something on my mind concerning the man who was here just now, Father and William — wait! — is there really anything in black, out there?” “Yes, yes, it is real,” said his aged father. “Is it a man?” “What I say myself, George,” interposed his brother, bending kindly over him. “It’s Mr. Redlaw.” “I thought I had dreamed of him. Ask him to come here.” The Chemist, whiter than the dying man, appeared before him. Obedient to the motion of his hand, he sat upon the bed. “It has been so ripped up, to-night, sir,” said the sick man, laying his hand upon his heart, with a look in which the mute, imploring agony of his condition was concentrated, “by the sight of my poor old father, and the thought of all the trouble I have been the cause of, and all the wrong and sorrow lying at my door, that —“ Was it the extremity to which he had come, or was it the dawning of another change, that made him stop? “— that what I CAN do right, with my mind running on so much, so fast, I’ll try to do. There was another man here. Did you see him?” Redlaw could not reply by any word; for when he saw that fatal sign he knew so well now, of the wandering hand upon the forehead, his voice died at his lips. But he made some indication of assent. “He is penniless, hungry, and destitute. He is completely beaten down, and has no resource at all. Look after him! Lose no time! I know he has it in his mind to kill himself.” It was working. It was on his face. His face was changing, hardening, deepening in all its shades, and losing all its sorrow. “Don’t you remember? Don’t you know him?” he pursued. He shut his face out for a moment, with the hand that again wandered over his forehead, and then it lowered on Redlaw, reckless, ruffianly, and callous. “Why, d-n you!” he said, scowling round, “what have you been doing to me here! I have lived bold, and I mean to die bold. To the Devil with you!” And so lay down upon his bed, and put his arms up, over his head and ears, as resolute from that time to keep out all access, and to die in his indifference. If Redlaw had been struck by lightning, it could not have struck him from the bedside with a more tremendous shock. But the old man, who had left the bed while his son was speaking to him, now returning, avoided it quickly likewise, and with abhorrence. “Where’s my boy William?” said the old man hurriedly. “William, come away from here. We’ll go home.” “Home, father!” returned William. “Are you going to leave your own son?” “Where’s my own son?” replied the old man. “Where? why, there!” “That’s no son of mine,” said Philip, trembling with resentment. “No such wretch as that, has any claim on me. My children are pleasant to look at, and they wait upon me, and get my meat and drink ready, and are useful to me. I’ve a right to it! I’m eighty-seven!” “You’re old enough to be no older,” muttered William, looking at him grudgingly, with his hands in his pockets. “I don’t know what good you are, myself. We could have a deal more pleasure without you.” “MY son, Mr. Redlaw!” said the old man. “MY son, too! The boy talking to me of MY son! Why, what has he ever done to give me any pleasure, I should like to know?” “I don’t know what you have ever done to give ME any pleasure,” said William, sulkily. “Let me think,” said the old man. “For how many Christmas times running, have I sat in my warm place, and never had to come out in the cold night air; and have made good cheer, without being disturbed by any such uncomfortable, wretched sight as him there? Is it twenty, William?”
To Be Continued Next Issue
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Quantity Surveyors
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 14, 2018 - Page 21
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Melbourne Seniors News
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Best Places
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Best Places
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Best Places
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Best Places
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Best Places
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Business Opportunities
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Observer Victorian Sport
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Melbourne
Biggest meeting at Echuca ■ The Echuca Harness Racing Club held its biggest meeting of the year on Saturday (Feb. 10) – Moama Bowling Club Echuca Pacing Cup night, with the $30,000 (Group 3) feature for M0 or better class over 2560 metres going to Kerryn Manning with ex-Kiwi 4Y0 Bettors Delight-Silkngems gelding Motu Meteor. Driven out from gate two, Motu Meteor crossed Shakahari inside him and looked set for an easy time, however Greg Sugars aboard Code Black had different thoughts and sent the much travelled gelding forward from gate four on the second line forward to park in the open. Applying the pressure from the bell, Code Black made Motu Meteor earn his keep as the pair turned together. Driven with vigour on turning, Motu Meteor defied all challengers to register a 2.2 metre margin in advance of Shakahari which had his chance along the sprint lane, with Code Black a meritorious third 5.2 metres away. The mile rate :1-59.9. ★ The time honoured $12,000 J AConnelly Crystal Bucket for Trotters T5 or better class (Discretionary Handicapped) over 2530 metres on the program saw the extremely well handicapped 40 metre backmarker Sky Petite successful in a rate of 2-03.9. Trained at Kialla by Dean Pattison, Sky Petite with youthful Ryan Duffy in the sulky began swiftly to possie six back along the markers, with Our Revenue Maker crossing Kyvalley Boomerang to assume control. When Cobram Trotters Cup winner Quillabamba (20 metres) ahead of him eased off the inside to lead up the outside division mid-race, Sky Petite immediately latched to his back to enjoy the run of the race. Things changed approaching the home turn on the final occasion when Quillabamba galloped as did the leader allowing Sky Petite to shoot clear. Coasting to the wire, Sky Petite scored untouched by 1.7 metres in advance of Kyvalley Boomerang on his inside giving young Duffy his biggest success in the sulky to date. Wangaratta Cup winner Forestspider was 2.2 metres away in third place.
Feature at Cobram
■ Cobram on the Murray was the venue for Victorian Monday harness racing (February 5) the feature being the $25,000 George Croxford Tribute named in honour of the late George Croxford who was President of the Wangaratta HR Club for many years. Prominent owner Kevin Riseley who can do no wrong of late (Lazarus, Lennytheshark, Heaven Rocks, Ultimate Machete) snared the feature for Three Year Olds 3C0 to 3C2 with a highly promising colt by the name of Higherthananeagle, a son of Mach Three and Three Eagles. Coming off an eye catching fifth from last to Poster Boy in a heat of the Victoria Derby at Ballarat on January 20, Higherthananeagle trained and driven by Avenel mentor David Aiken began with a wing on every foot from gate four to cross Cullens Legend inside him and despite being pressured as several of his rivals went forward in the 2170 metre feature, bounded clear approaching the final bend to record an easy 13.7 metre margin ahead of the favourite Shez All Rock (three wide last lap from mid-field), with Cullens Legend holding his ground to be 5.3 metres away in third place after using the sprint lane. In quarters of 29, 30.6, 28.6 and 26.9, Higherthananeagle recorded a new track record mile rate of 1-55.2.
Impressed at Cran.
■ An impressive winner at Cranbourne on Tuesday was Ymbro Wasted, a 4Y0 Majestic Son-Ymbro Wow gelding on debut for Melton trainer Peter Thompson in the Aldebaran Park Trotters Handicap for T0 or better class over 2575 metres.
Harness Racing
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with Len Baker
Driven by daughter Kate Gath, Ymbro Wasted led out from the pole, but after being eye-balled by Supplements, gave up the front running midrace to trail. Easing away from the markers on turning, Ymbro Wasted ran home nicely to score by 1.5 metres over Supplements, with the hot favourite ● Our Golden Goddess Goodtime Pe Rabbit a disappointing third 2.8 metres back after using the sprint lane to no Go Team Teal Victoria 3YO Pace over 2200 metres. Trained locally by Rod Carberry, Johns avail. The mile rate 2-08.1. Law with Ararat's Mick Bellman in the sulky began speedily from gate five to lead and after being given every opportunity at the head of af■ The extreme 40 degree plus temperature at fairs, ran out an easy 10 metre victor in advance Mildura trots last Wednesday didn't deter the of Goodtime Junior which raced outside him for chances of two veteran geldings - 11Y0 Super- the last half of the journey. star Xpress and 12Y0 Wrinkle Nutt who both Jagged Shadow was 5.8 metres away after tasted success at huge odds during the evening. following the winner. The mile rate 1-58.9. Superstar Xpress (Blissful Hall-Georgia Brown) starting from the extreme draw in the DNR Lo■ Wednesday - Bendigo, Thursday gistics Platinum Country Series J for C1 class Shepparton/Ballarat, Friday - Melton, Saturover 1790 metres (1st Heat) trained locally by ■ At Bendigo on Thursday evening, Elmore day Terang (Cup), Sunday - Yarra Valley, Terry Gange with Bendigo's Haydon Grey in part-owner/trainer Matthew Higgins' 7Y0 Monday - Maryborough, Tuesday - Mildura. the sulky, came from mid-field in the three wide Tennotrump-Wagons Heir gelding Plumbers train to trail Son Of Gozo Pride ahead of him in Pettycash was successful in the Gold FM Trotters Handicap for T1 or better class over 2150 the last lap. Although very wide on the home turn, Super- metres returning a mile rate of 2-03.4 Driven ■ Nikita Adele, Distinctive Deal, Any Old star Xpress ($25.20) finished brilliantly to record once again by Chris Alford, Plumbers Pettycash Way, Willem, Vapar Jack, Rory Michinson, began with plenty of zest from barrier five to a head margin over the leader Ona Impulse and Hickstead. cross Tiber (barrier three) inside him running Roll The Seven which raced in the open. into the first turn. It was Superstar Xpress' 18th victory when Allowed to bowl, Plumbers Pettycash al- of Tabcorp Park Melton on Friday after driving having start number 224, returning a mile rate though getting weary as the winning post loomed, a quartet of winners. - Scheu Creek ($52.10), of 1-58.6. Love Ina Chevy ($5.30), Illcryifhewinds Not to be denied, Wrinkle Nutt (Safely Kept- held on to register a well deserved 1.2 metre ($13.80) and Our Golden Goddess ($1.30). Styx Mistress) also trained locally by Jason margin over Tiber, with Jeter (one/one - three Caribbean Blaster-Think You Can Dance McGinty and driven by Bendigonian Ellen wide home turn) a head away third. gelding Scheu Creek trained by father Peter Tormey, settled in an awkward spot four back Manning led throughout in the Swift Signs Prethe markers after starting inside the second line miere Stakes for Two Year Olds over 1720 in the 2190 metre Win TV Pace for C1 class ■ Bendigo's Bruce Morgan provided a long-shot metres to upstage the fancied duo of Major Exover 2190 metres as polemarker Shark Alert winner at Bendigo when Ideal Moment, a 5Y0 clusive and Soho Thunderstruck in a mile rate led. son of American Ideal andThe Warp of 1-56.8. Jeremes Jet-Chevyover 6Y0 gelding Extricated into the clear in the last lap to make gelded Legacy raced by wife Val greeted the judge in Love Ina Chevy did similar in the Gogs Pace the final bend three wide, Wrinkle Nutt ($23.20) the Petstock Pace for C2 class over 2150 metres, for M1 class over 1720 metres, defeating Whirily was too strong at the finish for Wicked Isle (three returning a mile School and Jedi Mind in 1-55.2 for Melton menrate of 1-59.1. back the markers) and Major Jamane in a rate tor Lance Justice. With John Caldow in the sulky, Ideal Moof 2-01.4. Wrinkle Nutt was having his 250th ment ($39.80) enjoyed a cosy passage from Ten-year-old Wind Cries Maori-Rich Vicouting which has resulted in 15 wins. tory gelding Illcryifhewinds trained at gate two trailing the pacemaker Curlimore and The most improved horse in Sunraysia, 9Y0 taken into the clear on turning, finished Bullengarook by Graham Lee came from well Dawn Ofa New Day- Our Madame gelding when full of to blouse the heavily supported back in the field to account for Cruisin Around Daylight Dan part-owned and trained by Mildura Sanna running Cruza (three wide last lap from the tail) and Tiavos Dream in the TAB Multiplier TrotHRC Committeeman Geoff Lucas was victori- by a half head in a tricky finish. Curlimore held ters Mobile, returning a mile rate of 1-58 and ous in the fast class event of the evening - the down third 1.4 metres away. Kerryn's own 5Y0 mare Our Golden Goddess Zilzie Wines Pace for C5 or better class over (Art Major-Localize) toyed with her rivals once 2190 metres. again in winning the 2240 metre Schweppes Already a winner of four this season and 23 Pace for M2 to M4 class, leading all of the way overall, Daylight Dan with Gordon's Darby ■ Ballarat Trotting Club CEO Paul Rowse was in 1-54.8 to defeat Hickstead and Berisari. McGuigan in the sulky, possied three back in also a Bendigo winner when 4Y0 Rocknroll the moving line as Dynamite Dingo led the field Hanover-Cultured Lombo entire Small Town from gate two. snared the Bendigo Party Hire Pace for C0 class Going forward three wide uncovered in the over 2150 metres with Jason Lee holding the ■ If you are interested in the trots and would last lap, Daylight Dan sustained a long run to reins. like a weekend break - then come with me on a blouse a death-seating Nikkibadwagon by a In a masterly training performance, Small hit-run visit to New Zealand for that country's head, with local hero Murranji Track third 1.3 Town who has had numerous problems was biggest juvenile harness event - the Harness metres away after following the winner home. making his race debut and led throughout from Jewels leaving Friday, June 1. The mile rate 1-57.7. To be held at Cambridge south of Auckland the pole, accounting for Westvillageemily and on Saturday June 2, we will also dine at Rocknroll Prince in 2-01. Alexandra Park (Auckland) on Friday June 1 and visit a stud farm prior to return on Sunday. ■ Horsham was the venue for Thursday afterFor all information, give me a call on 0401 noon racing and Four Starzzz Shark-Bellapur ■ The world's most decorated reinswoman 679 745. gelding Johns Law was a strong winner of the Great Western's Kerryn Manning was "Queen" - Len Baker
Sulky Snippets
Vets win at Mildura
Weary at the post
This Week
Horses to follow
Long-shot winner
Winners at Bendigo
Trip to New Zealand
Strong winner
Queen on the night
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Thea tr e: Vale Mary Kappner .................................... P age 3399 heatr tre: Arts: Peter Kemp’s column ................................................ Page 38 Country Music: Joni Mitchell show at Memo .............. Page 38 Jim and Aar on: Top 10 Lists, Best DVDs .............................. Page 40 Aaron: Cheryl Threadgold: Local shows, auditions ........................... Page 41 PL US THE LLO OVATT”S MEGA CRO PLUS CROSSSWORD
VALE LORRAINE MADSEN Michael Mace OAM
● Michael Mace OAM. Photo: Digby Forbes ■ Hearty congratulations to Michael Mace who was awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in the 2018 Australia Day Honours List for his service to community Theatre. This well-deserved award particularly acknowledges Michael’s 56 years’ service to the theatre company he created, the Adelphi Players Theatre Company, as well as being a Life Member of more than 20 years with the Victorian Drama League. Michael also volunteers as a tutor at the Glen Eira U3A, running a Playreading Group. When I had the pleasure of interviewing Michael, his dedication to non-professional theatre shone through when talking about his own company, The Adelphi Players Theatre Company, formed in 1962. Michael does not seek the limelight as a performer, and has never performed onstage himself. For the company’s first show in 1962, The Winslow Boy, Michael was Stage Manager, and these days is the company Administrator and director of all productions. In the company’s early days, Michael’s Mum and Dad would give up their lounge-room for rehearsals. “There were not as many groups then as there are now,” said Michael. “There were companies like Beaumaris, Malvern and Frankston, but not a lot of little groups.” In 1965 the company began performing in the Ormond Uniting Church hall, and still perform there today. The Adelphi Players Theatre Company also performed at the National Trust’s Labassa mansion in Caulfield for many years until 2014, and raised good funds for the National Trust and for restorations. Michael Mace has made a unique and wonderful contribution to Victorian non-professional theatre, particularly through his determination to keep the Adelphi Players running for 56 years, which has benefitted local communities and the actors and behind the scenes people who work on his shows. Golden Days Radio presenter Joan Krutli who often performs in Michael’s productions, says: “Michael’s passion and commitment to community theatre is unsurpassed.” Congratulations Michael Mace OAM. - Cheryl Threadgold
● Lorraine Madsen ■ Melbourne’s non-professional theatre community lost a dedicated and talented practitioner with the passing of Lorraine Madsen, a Mordialloc Theatre Company member for 63 years. Lorraine was farewelled by family, friends and colleagues in a moving service at St Michael’s and All Angels Anglican Church in Beaumaris, conducted by the Reverend Robert McUtchen. Her four daughters Ann, Karen, Jane and Clare, each paid tribute to their mother, and remembered playing in the Parkdale Mechanics’ Institute hall while Lorraine was directing plays, and their dad John was working on the sets. The girls loved seeing Lorraine’s make-up case, being taken backstage to meet the cast in shows, and their mother’s sense of pride in her theatre group. Lorraine and John were to celebrate their 67th wedding anniversary this coming March. As well as directing, Lorraine’s fine acting was reputed to reduce audiences to tears or laughter. Lorraine later transferred her creativity to patchworking and took much pleasure in choosing fabrics to suit the individual personalities of family members, and created a patchwork quilt for each person.. Recently, I had the pleasure of interviewing Lorraine and company President Juliet Hayday for my research project on Victorian non-professional theatre. Lorraine remembered auditioning for the Mordialloc Citizens’ League Theatre Group’s first show A Cuckoo In The Nest, at 15, but was told to finish Fourth Form at Mordialloc High School. Not to be deterred, Lorraine returned to audition for the company’s second show, The House of Thrills, by Leslie Chadwick-Browning, and was asked if she could scream. “I screamed so loudly it nearly brought the roof down,” laughed Lorraine. As it turned out, the person already cast in the role could not scream as required, so Lorraine was cast instead, as a spinster in her late 50s, and all because she could scream! White shoe paint was used in her hair to help age the 16-year-old’s appearance. Thus began a lifelong association between Lorraine and the theatre company, known today as the Mordialloc Theatre Company. In 1962, Lorraine was asked to direct the first show that opened the Shirley Burke Theatre in Parkdale, The Man Who Came to Dinner, with a cast of 33 actors. “I was in my 30s at the time with young children, so a lady connected to the company came in to do my ironing to help me,” recalled Lorraine. Lorraine was described as a ‘generous, spirited woman’ and remembered by her grandchildren as an “extraordinary, patient and kind” grandmother, and a wonderful cook and storyteller. Among the many theatre representatives attending the service was Eric Hayes, who recalled meeting Lorraine in 1951 when she was known as Lorraine Johnson. Mordialloc Theatre Company President Juliet Hayday pays tribute to Lorraine with these words: “Lorraine was our Elder Stateswoman, held in high regard by the longer serving members of the Company who had worked with her, and viewed with affection by those who came to know her in more recent times. Her cheerful greeting will be missed in the foyer at Shirley Burke Theatre.” Sincere condolences to Lorraine’s husband John and her family, friends, and members of the Mordialloc Theatre Company. - Cheryl Threadgold
● Lorraine Madsen with Graham Hunter in Summer of the Seventeenth Doll in 1965.
School of Rock ■ The search is on to find the best knee-sliding, fist-pumping kids in the country, with auditions commencing soon – budding rock stars can register via the website. School of Rock – The Musical follows dropout Dewey Finn, a failed rock star forced to earn some extra cash by posing as a teacher at a prestigious prep school. But Dewey isn’t going to teach his straight-laced students algebra or arithmetic, oh no. These kids are going to learn what it takes to become the most awesome rock ‘n’ roll band of all time. Now he just needs to get his students to the Battle of the Bands, dodging strict teachers and pushy parents on the way to teaching these pint-sized prodigies what it means to truly rock. With a new score from Andrew Lloyd Webber, lyrics by three-time Tony nominee Glenn Slater, book by Downton Abbey’s Oscar winning Julian Fellowes, and all the original songs from the movie, School of Rock features an incredible cast of kids scorching riffs, pounding drums and rocking out live. Andrew Lloyd Webber and Executive Producer, Madeleine Lloyd Webber are excited to be bringing the show to Australia and describe the musical’s creation. “As a family we sat down to watch the movie of School Of Rock and were immediately struck by how much it resonated with us all. We loved it for its sense of outrageous fun and the story that proves music can really change your life, whatever your age. “We therefore realised we had the opportunity to share this with the world in the most exciting way of all – as a great new musical. We cannot wait to see the remarkably talented group of young actor musicians that we will uncover down under.” Based on the hit movie, School of Rock – The Musical premiered in December 2015 at Broadway’s Winter Garden Theatre, smashing box office records, garnering rave reviews, and earning four Tony nominations. The West End production opened in November 2016 at the New London Theatre, winning both the 2017 Olivier for Outstanding Achievement in Music and the 2017 WhatsOnStage Award for Best New Musical. An extensive US national tour was launched in September 2017. Turn To Page 39
Page 38 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 14, 2018
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Observer Showbiz
Country Music, Radio, Theatre, Almanac Country Crossroads
By Rob Foenander info@countrycrossroads.com.au
IB Visual Arts Exhibition ■ A diverse and exciting range of artworks from the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program Visual Arts Course are featured in this exhibition. Selected students’ work examined in 2017 will be displayed. The works will provide visitors with an understanding of the different approaches and the varied work produced in this unique two-year study program. Contemporary sculpture, photography, painting, textiles, drawing, digital media and printmaking are included in this exhibition. Opening February 15 and closes March 4 Glen Eira Council Gallery Cnr Glen Eira & Hawthorn Rds, Caulfield. - Peter Kemp
National Gallery of Victoria
This is Joni
■ The art and music of Joni Mitchell will be on display at the Memo Music Hall, St Kilda. The show, This is Joni, is written and performed by Melbourne singer-songwriter, Lauren Elizabeth, the daughter of wellknown Australian entertainer Bob Valentine. The audience will be taken through an exploration of memorable songs from the legendary singer/songwriter. Friday, March 2. 7.30pm. Tickets at www.memomusichall.com.auGood Friday
The Guild is back
■ The Country Music Guild is back for 2018. Live country bands perform every Friday at the Pascoe Vale RSL. Coming up. Feb. 16. Mustang, Feb. 23.The Dalton Gang, Mar. 2. Rough Cut, Mar. 9. Rene Diaz.
Newport 2018
■ The Newport Folk and Fiddle Club is back in action for the new year. The club offers a roster of both open mic nights and special guest events. Swing, jazz, folk classics, popular music and a bit of poetry and storytelling too are all on offer. All are welcome. Bring along an instrument or just come and enjoy the music at 7:30pm on the last Friday of each month at 13 Mason St, Newport. - Rob Foenander
Audience becomes the art in live installation The audience becomes the artist at the NGV Triennial with Jerusalem-born artist Einat Amir's Coming Soon Near You. The artist has created a living room where visitors to the NGVTriennial are invited to bring their favourite video, from DVD to VHS, to watch live on TV within the exhibition space in this installation. In an Australian, premiere Coming Soon Near You explores human interactions, shares universal moments of family, friends and community, and collapses the boundaries between private and public. Audiences both share and witness typically private domestic moments, munching on provided snacks while they watch their own (G and PG rated) material in the exhibition space, from reminiscing about old VHS home videos with family through to re-watching cherished or classic DVD series with friends. Audiences can register to bring their own content to watch during allocated session times. In between these allocated times, the television screen in Amir's installation will display a menu of eight videos, which have been selected by participants in the opening week of the show. Visitors moving through the exhibition space can participate by taking a seat selecting a film from this menu. Einat Amir works from her Tel Aviv studio which she calls her 'lab of emotional research', examining human behaviour through partly planned, partly spontaneous interactions exhibited as video installations and live performances. Coming Soon Near You runs until April 15. Audiences can register a date and time to screen their film during one of the daily sessions, each of which can accommodate up to five people. For bookings please visit the website at NGV
r Obser vbeiz On This Day Show
Wednesday Thursday February 14 February 15
■ Valentine’s Day. US entertainer Jack Benny was born in 1894. He died aged 80 in 1974. Sports caller Norman ‘Nugget’ May was born in Melbourne in 1928. The late Florence Henderson (Carol in The Brady Bunch) was born in 1934.
■ Australian entertainer Roy Rene ‘Mo’ (Henry van der Sluys) was born in Adelaide in 1892. He died aged 62 in 1954. Graham Kennedy was born in 1934. He died aged 71 in 2005. He hosted In Melb. Tonight. Football identity Neale Daniher was born in Ungarie, NSW, in 1961 (56).
Melbourne Arts
with Peter Kemp
Melbourne. National Gallery of Victoria 180 St. Kilda Rd, Melbourne - Peter Kemp
Heide Museum of Modern Art Art Talk The Beats behind the brushstrokes. Australian rock icons Mick Harvey and Dave Graney join Jenny Watson in the Music Room to discuss how Melbourne's punk music scene of the late 1970's influenced her work. Sunday, February 18 at 2pm ★ Art by Twilight View Jenny Watson: The Fabric of Fantasy after hours when we keep the doors open late for cool summer nights of art and music. BYO picnic or enjoy eats from Café Heide Saturday, February24. 5pm-8pm. Heide Museum of Modern Art 7 Templestowe Rd, Bulleen - Peter Kemp
Abbotsford Convent ButohOUT! Festival ! February 27 - April 2. From Australia's Butch queen Yumi Umiumare and Abbotsford Convent, the inaugural event brings together the beautiful, the grotesque and the playful with workshops and performances that explore unique Japanese aesthetics in an Australian landscape. The Gallery's first c3 exhibition of the year features an installation by Steven Rhiall, photography by Ben Sextonm Liesl Pfeffer and Torika Bolatagici, paintings by Madelaien ZKely and the group exhibition Concrete Commodity by Garth Howells, Isable Buck, Isabella Darcy and Lina Buck. Exhibition closes Sunday, February 25. The Abbotsford Convent 1 St Heliers St, Abbotsford - Peter Kemp
Romeo and Juliet ■ Director Alan Chambers welcomed us to Sly Rat Theatre Co.’s third season of Shakespeare in Park, a free outdoor production with support by their sponsor Moonee Valley City Council. With a delayed start due to threatening skies the first half was then interrupted by a 20-minute downpour before resuming close to interval. The conditions hampered the technical output for which the Director apologised, however without adequate head mikes the level of projection varied greatly and certainly not all lines were audible. If you expect the traditional Shakespeare Romeo and Juliet this was not it, as Co-Artistic Director and Playwright Dr Andy Harmsen adapted the work with a contemporary feel and indeed with a reduced number of cast. While it generally worked the casting of Romeo and Juliet was not right. Physically they did not match. The chemistry was not there, Juliet needed to be younger and while she had a head mike, Romeo did not which led him to shout and at times inaudible. Although the weather conditions affected the performance, it was the words and special effects that complimented the production with some powerful individual and duo performances from Ty Holdsworth as Benvolio from the House of Montague and Brendan Ewing as Mercutio from the House of Escalus. Amusing and formidable in their many interactions. Also to take the spotlight was Alex Aldrich as Nurse from the House of Capulet, maintaining her character role well throughout the scenes of pain, joy and grief. The fight between the House of Montague’s Masashi Shimamoto as Romeo and Harry Tseng as House of Capulet’s Tybalt, was well choreographed. Despite some difficulties in the performance Chambers and Harmsen – “have stripped, twisted, turned up the volume, and transformed this age-old tale into something that will touch your hearts in ways never dreamt of before”. Certainly take advantage of being part of their final three performances this coming weekend. It is free and inviting. Dates: Friday February16, Saturday February17 and Sunday, February 18 Time: 6pm Cost: Free Venue: Queens Park, Mt Alexander Road, Moonee Ponds Details: slyrattheatreco.com - Review by Graeme McCoubrie Melbourne
Observer
Friday Saturday February 16 February 17 ■ Singer, and politician, Sonny Bono was born in 1935. He died aged 62 in 1998. The late Patty Andrews, a member of the Andrews Sisters, was born in 1918. US tennis player John McEnroe was born in Germany in 1959 Actress Lisa Loring was born in 1958 (60).
■ Folk poet Andrew ‘Banjo’ Paterson was born in NSW in 1864. He died aged 76 in 1941. British actress Patricia Routledge was born in Cheshire, England, in 1929 (89). US singer-songwriter Gene Pitney was born in 1940. He died aged 66 in 2006.
Sunday Monday February 18 February 19
Tuesday February 20
■ Sports commentator Rex Mossop was born in 1928. He died aged 83 in 2011. Director-producer Milos Forman was born in Czechoslovakia in 1932. Artist and musician Yoko Ono was born in Japan in 1933 (85). Actor John Travolta was born in 1954 (64).
■ Fashion designer Gloria Vanderbilt was born in New York in 1934. Actor Sir Sidney Pottier was born in Miami, Florida, in 1927. Football commentator Neil Kerley was born in South Australia in 1934. Actress Lisa Hemsley was born in 1968.
■ English actor Dick Emery was born in England in 1918. He died aged 65 in 1983. Actor Lee Marvin was born in New York in 1924. He died aged 63 in 1987. Prince Andrew was born in 1960 (58). Actress Zoe Carides was born in Sydney in 1962 (56).
Thanks to GREG NEWMAN of Jocks Journal for assistance with birthday and anniversary dates. Jocks Journal is Australia’s longest running radio industry publication. Find out more at www.jocksjournal.com
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 14, 2018 - Page 39
Observer Showbiz
TV, Radio, Theatre
Shikered! ■ Shikered! A Purim Cabaret at Melbourne’s Kadimah Jewish Cultural Centre on February 24 - 25 takes a radical approach to the annual Purim festival that celebrates the salvation of the Jewish people in ancient Persia from a plot by viceroy Haman to annihilate them. The Jews are saved by the King’s Jewish wife, Queen Esther , and her uncle Mordechai, a story recounted in the Megilleh (Book of Esther) amid raucous celebration, fancy dress, feasting and drinking. “This is Purim for grown-ups as you’ve always imagined it should be – raucous, naughty and filled with Yiddish drinking songs,” says director and co-writer Galit Klas. The original script, written by Klas and well-known Melbourne actor and dramaturg Evelyn Krape, revisits the Megilleh as political satire, in which the Ahashverosh Regime is challenged in a bawdy election campaign to “Make Persia Great Again”. Klas says the new show looks at the traditional Purim story in a radically different way – from the perspective of the two women characters, Esther and Vashti. “We’ve tried to imagine a different Persia where women were equal. In our story, female disobedience is not the problem – it’s what the king asks Esther and Vashti to do in the first place. Our show is very much a political satire.” With Klas and Krape as MCs, the show features a cast including Karen Feldman, Dana Klas, Freydi Mrocki, Lionel Mrocki, Elisa Gray, Michelle Gray, Josh Reuben, Jess Cornish and an outstanding house band including David Krycer (bass), Yuval Ashkar (oud and darbuka) and musical director Tomi Kalinski (piano) who also composed original music for the production. Klas says that the other difference is that the show combines Ashkenazi and Sephardic traditions. “Essentially, we’ll be playing Jewish fusion music, drawing on both ancient Middle Eastern and Yiddish traditions,” Klas said. Klas is an award-winning scriptwriter and actor and last year created and directed A Night to Remember: The Ghetto Cabaret for the Kadimah. She previously directed two other plays for the Kadimah, the popular Balaganeyden – A Messy Paradise, and Sholem Aleichem: Not Dead Yet. Krape is a comic actress who has been performing for more than 40 years, starting with the Australian Performing Group and Pram Factory. She performed in such classic Australian works as Dimboola and Don's Party, going on to work with every major company from the MTC, Playbox and the Victorian Opera to La Mama and Eleventh Hour. She has toured extensively with a number of one-woman shows including Emma Celabrazione! and Ironing Out The Wrinkles. Patrons are welcome to come dressed in costume or to simply don a fancy hat or mask and join in the fun as Klas and Krape lead everyone on a wild and wicked night of original Yiddish cabaret-style entertainment. The dialogue will be in English and there will be English surtitles for the Yiddish songs. There are two shows: Saturday February 24 at 8pm and Sunday February 25 at 7pm Tickets: $45 full/ $40 Kadimah members and concession / $300 for a table of 8 Drinks at the bar, BYO snacks Bookings: www.trybooking.com/TSNY - Cheryl Threadgold
78-Storey Townhouse
● Samuel Welsh and Teale Howie in 78-Storey Treehouse. Photo: Heidrun Lohr ■ The team behind The 13, 26 and 52-Storey His books have been New York Times Treehouse stage adaptations is back with the bestsellers, adapted for stage and television and newest, biggest, brightest blockbuster in the se- won more than 70 Australian children’s choice ries, The 78-Storey Treehouse, on stage at Arts awards. Centre Melbourne from April 4-22 Griffiths, a passionate advocate for literacy, Andy and Terry’s treehouse just keeps on is an ambassador for The Indigenous Literacy growing. With yet another 13 levels, it’s now got Foundation and The Pyjama Foundation. a Scribbletorium, a high-security potato chip storTerry Denton is one of Australia’s most popuage facility (guarded by one very angry duck!) lar children’s illustrators and authors. and even an open-air movie theatre. He teamed up with Andy Griffiths in 1997 to The best-selling, award-winning series of develop the JUST! series, then followed up with books created by much-loved duo Andy The Cat on the Mat is Flat and The Bad Books Griffiths and Terry Denton has inspired chil- before the incredibly popular Treehouse series, dren across Australia to let their imaginations 13, 26, 39, 52, 65, 78 and 91. run wild. He has won more than 15 children’s choice The 78-Storey Treehouse has been short- awards throughout Australia and at least another listed for the Indie BookAwards 2017 and ABIA 40 more with Griffiths. Book of the Year forYounger Children 2017. Denton, also a fine artist, also worked for the It won the KROC Awards Best Fiction for Australian Children’s Television Foundation Older Readers 2017,KOALAAward Fiction for on Lift-Off, acknowledged as one of the most Older Readers 2017 and YABBAAwards 2017. innovative children’s television shows produced The book sold more than 3000 copies on its first in Australia, helping to devise the program and day of sale at Dymocks stores. design the puppets. Directed by Liesel Badorrek, in this adaptaCDP Theatre Producers' recent works for tion the legendary Mr Big Shot has arrived to children and families include world-premiere admake a Hollywood blockbuster. aptations of popular books The 13-Storey But when his first step is to fire Andy and Treehouse, The 26-Storey Treehouse, The 52replace him with a monkey – well, a gibbon Storey Treehouse, The 78-Storey Treehouse, The named Mel Gibbon – the battle is on. Incredible Book Eating Boy, Snugglepot and Will the Treehouse Blockbuster ever get Cuddlepie, Mr Stink and Horrible Harriet, along made? Who will win the battle of Andy and Terry with the Australian premieres of The Gruffalo, and why are those mysterious spy cows turning The Gruffalo's Child and Room on the Broom. up everywhere? Performance Dates:April 4 - 22 Griffiths said The 78-Storey Treehouse was Venue: Arts Centre Melbourne, Playhouse “mad, rollicking, rambunctious idiotic fun.’’ Recommended for ages 6+ Andy Griffiths is one of Australia’s most Relaxed Performance – Friday, April 13, popular children’s authors. 11am. Relaxed Performances are for anyone From his bestselling, award-winning who will benefit from a more 'relaxed environTreehouse series—now published in more than ment', especially audience members with dis30 countries—to the JUST! books (both illus- ability. Auslan Interpreted Performance – Sattrated by long-time friend and collaborator Terry urday, April 14, 12 Noon Denton) and The Day My Bum Went Psycho, Bookings: artscentremelbourne.com.au or Griffiths’s books have captivated and kept Aus- 1300 182 183 tralian kids laughing for more than 20 years. - Cheryl Threadgold
BODY MAP ■ Navigating who we are has never been tougher, access is blocked with the promise of beauty and perfection. The personal highway to our soul is in multilane gridlock, diversions from the self at every exit. Glitta Supernova guides audiences on an intimate fleshy foray through the parallel universes of 90s club culture and performative theatre, in Body Map being presented at The Butterfly Club from March 6-
11 at 8.30pm. Billed as psychedelic, satirical, personal and political storytelling with puns, punches and possibilities. Body Map explores our inner being, highlighting our capacity to transform despite the odds. The Body Map bordello bus pulls itself into Melbourne’s The Butterfly Club this March. This will be the tail end of a 12-month sell out tour across Australia and New Zealand
which has amassed a total six nominations. Glitta is said to be a culture maker and creator of Australia’s first Burlesque Club, Gurlesque. Performance details: March 6 – 11 at 8.30pm Venue: The Butterfly Club, Melbourne. Duration: 60 minutes Bookings: https:// thebutterflyclub.com/show/ bodymap - Cheryl Threadgold
Mary Kappner
● Mary Kappner ■ Encore Theatre in Clayton is mourning the passing of their former president and fellow thespian Mary Kappner. Mary passed away after a long illness. Mary was a wonderful person and loved by everyone. She was nurse in her working days, outspoken in her political views and fought her illness bravely. Mary was a wonderful character actress and passionate about theatre. She worked with many companies including Peridot, Waverley, Adelphi,1812 and Malvern. Mary won the VDL award for best supporting actress in 2004 for her performance as ‘Mammy’ in the Cripple of Inishmaan at Waverley Theatre. Mary Kappner appeared in many stage productions over the years including The Rose Tattoo at Malvern, Waiting in the Wings at Peridot, Arsenic and Old Lace at Encore, and The Vicar of Dibley at 1812. There will not be a funeral at this time but in a few months there will be a celebration service to remember Mary Kappner and a life well lived. Our sympathy is extended to Jane, Helen, her grandson Leo and all the family. - Kevin Trask
Radio Briefs
■ Josh Olek is the new host of the Grant Broadcasters weeknight music show Oz Made. Josh, who is the daytime host of K Rock Geelong, takes over from former host Sarah Demicoli, who gave birth to her first child, reports Jocks Journal. ■ Steve Smith, former ARN Melbourne general manager, is returning to Australia. He's been the COO of the Arabian Radio Network has accepted the role of role of CEO of Boost Media International, a consultancy formed by George Buschman, reports Greg Newman of Jocks Journal. ■ 3CR presents Communities of Sound! An afternoon of Treaty, Creative Women and Diverse Cultures live music and performance at the Fairfield Amphitheatre on Sunday (Feb. 18), 5pm-7.30pm.
School of Rock ● From Page 39 ■ Produced by Paramount Pictures, the 2003 film was directed by Richard Linklater and starred Jack Black in a career-defining performance and went on to gross more than $130 million worldwide. Previews from Wednesday, October 31, Her Majesty’s Theatre, Melbourne Pre-sale Wednesday March 14, on sale Friday, March 16 Tickets from $69.90* subject to availability. $69.90 is restricted view seating on all performances. An additional transaction fee of $6.60/order applies to all online bookings. schoolofrockmusical.com.au - Cheryl Threadgold
Page 40 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 14, 2018
Observer Showbiz
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Movies, DVDs with Jim Sherlock, Aaron Rourke What’s Hot and What’s Not in Blu-Rays and DVDs FILM: THE MOUNTAIN BETWEEN US: Genre: Action/Adventure/Drama. Cast: Idris Elba, Kate Winslet, Beau Bridges. Year: 2017. Rating: M. Length: 112 Minutes. Stars: **½ Verdict: The story of two separate people stuck at an airport, no hire cars available, so they charter a twin engine plane (from Beau Bridges) and take off, with no flight plan or record logged, and you guessed it, the pilot takes ill and they crash into the remote snow covered mountains of Utah. Surrounded by extreme elements, they realize help is not coming, and they embark on a treacherous journey across hundreds of miles of wilderness, and along the way they find more in common with each other than first thought as they push each other to endure and discover strength they never knew possible. Well directed, well acted and beautifully photographed, but surprisingly unconvincing and unengaging romantic-adventure survival tale that comes over as a cross between "Survive" (1976), the remake "Alive" in 1993 with Ethan Hawke, and 2003's "Love Actually," and has been referred to as "Alive Actually." Unlike the aforementioned "Alive," which is based on the true story of the plane crash with the Uruguayan Rugby Team in the snow swept Andes on Friday the 13th of October, 1972, this is based is based on the novel by Charles Martin. Following a spectacular plane crash, the screenplay quickly falls into cliché and tedium, and soon any feeling of emotion and impending doom is soon diminished no matter how bad things are going to get. Nonetheless, this isn't a "bad" movie, the solid direction by Hany Abu-Assad and the performances from the enormously appealing Idris Elba and Kate Winslet keep it afloat and worthy of your time and effort, even though this old-fashioned no-frills lump of storytelling has been told before, only better, and after that sinking feeling has taken effect. FILM: MY LITTLE PONY - THE MOVIE: Genre: Animated/Adventure/Musical/Comedy. Cast: Emily Blunt, Liev Schreiber, Ashleigh Ball, Kristin Chenoweth. Year: 2017. Rating: G. Stars: *** Verdict: Charming animated fantasy tale set in the land of Ponyville, and when a dark force threatens them, so Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and Rarity - embark on an journey beyond Equestria where they meet new friends and challenges on a quest to use the magic of friendship to save their home. Based on the popular and long running animated children's television series "My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic," this is a colourful, silly, sprightly, sugar-coated, and energetic enough family musical romp that is sure to delight fans of the series, but may be a bit confusing to those unfamiliar with the characters and setting. Unlike the animation of Disney-Pixar or Looney Tunes, it's flaws are that it is strikingly plain in its visual representation and comes across as a few episodes of the TV series butt-ended together to make a feature, but nonetheless, it remains faithful to the series in every way, brimming with pony-puns, clean humour and every colour of the rainbow ... a kiddies treat! FILM: THE FOREIGNER: Genre: Action/Crime/Drama. Cast: Jackie Chan, Pierce Brosnan, Rufus Jones, Katie Leung. Year: 2017. Rating: MA15+ Length: 108 Minutes. Stars: *** Verdict: A humble businessman with a buried past seeks justice when his daughter is killed in an act of terrorism. A cat-and-mouse conflict ensues with a government official, whose past may hold clues to the killers' identities. "Edge of Darkness," "Goldeneye" and "Casino Royale" director, Martin Campbell, has created a seemingly all-too-familiar by-the numbers-action romp that, from any other source, would have fallen as comfortably into the lap of present day Sylvester Stallone, Bruce Willis or Harrison Ford. Nevertheless, even though it may not quite reach the calibre of "John Wick," "Taken," "Kill Bill" or "Payback" this is a well made, stylish, intense and thrilling ride for those familiar with the work of Campbell, Jackie Chan, Pierce Brosnan and the revenge-thriller genre. As reliable and comfortable as an old pair of slippers Jackie Chan plays pathos well as the aging and grieving father with a dark past out for revenge who, at 63, can still kick high and bring in the high body count as good as anyone half his age, and is well matched against former 007 star Pierce Brosnan as the former IRA member turned politician. Based on the book "The Chinaman" by Stephen Leather, action director Martin Campbell is right at home here in rejuvenating old warhorses, keeping the suspense, action, pyrotechnics and thrills high, resulting in a well balanced and above average ride filled with murky figures with dark past, and evil doers getting their just deserts.
Rourke’s Reviews
Top 10 Lists FEBRUARY 11-17 THE AUSTRALIAN BOX OFFICE TOP TEN: 1. THE GREATEST SHOWMAN. 2. I, TONYA. 3. DEN OF THIEVES. 4. JUMANJI: WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE. 5. MOLLY'S GAME. 6. MAZE RUNNER: THE DEATH CURE. 7. THREE BILLBOARDS OUTSIDE EBBING, MISSOURI. 8. DARKEST HOUR. 9. PADMAAV AT. 10. THE POST.
● Star Saoirse Ronan and writer/director Greta Gerwig on the set of Lady Bird, opening in cinemas on February 15. Ulysses Klaue (Andy Serkis, enjoying himself immensely) and his ■ (M). 94 minutes. Opens in se- mysterious assistant Erik lected cinemas on February 15. Killmonger (Michael B. Jordon), Autobiographical in nature, this steal a portion of this prized comcharming coming-of-age comedy/ modity, T'Challa, along with Nakia drama manages to rise above the (Lupita Nyong'o), Dora Milaje crowd, quite an achievement given head guard Okoye (Danai Gurira), how many of this type of movie and independently minded gadget have come and gone over the de- expert Shuri (Letitia Wright), must cades. stop them before this material is Set in 2002, the film centres on sold to the highest bidder. 'Lady Bird' McPherson (Saoirse Co-writer/director Ryan Coogler Ronan), who, in her last year of (Fruitvale Station, Creed), successhigh school, is trying to figure out fully gives this exotic world a life what she wants to do, and how to of its own, but the rigid template set stand out from the crowd in her down by Disney and Marvel partly own, idiosyncratic way. hampers his obviously passionate Her long-time best friend is Julie attempt to take a superhero movie (Beanie Feldstein), and she has a down a unique path. crush on fellow student Danny Colourfully designed and shot, (Lucas Hedges). with a number of strong perforHer parents, Marion (Laurie mances (Wright steals the film), Metcalf) and Larry (Tracy Letts), Black Panther deserves to be seen, aren't rich, so Lady Bird is unsure even by those who are decidedly which universities to apply to. suffering from superhero overload. Mother and daughter already have RATING - ***½ a love-hate relationship, but when Marion discovers that Lady Bird has secretly applied to a high-end college out-of-town, tempers be- (MA). 120 minutes. Opens in setween the two become dangerously lected cinemas on February 15. The second major feature to deal frayed. Writer/director Greta Gerwig with the 2013 Boston Marathon compassionately brings these char- bombing in the last 12 months (the acters to life, doing so in a disci- first being Patriots Day), this much more thoughtful and measured look plined, compact fashion. The acting is superb, and it is at the horrific event downplays the great to see under-rated actress nationalistic fervour in favour of Metcalf (Roseanne TV series, In- personal, well-rounded drama, and fernal Affairs) get her best role in sees a once-promising film-maker make a long-awaited return to form. years. The story centres on Jeff Would make a good companion piece with Wes Anderson's simi- Bauman (Jake Gyllenhaal), aBoston Costco employee who is somelarly eccentric Rushmore. what unreliable around both colRATING - **** leagues and friends. This irresponsible behaviour is what caused a split between he and (M). 134 minutes. Opens in cin- girlfriend Erin Hurley (Tatiana emas everywhere on February 15, Maslany). in 2D, 3D, and IMAX. When the two have a chance enWith so many superhero mov- counter at their local bar, Jeff promies filling cinemas nowadays, it is ises to support Erin at the maraalmost impossible for any single en- thon, which she is going to run in. try to stand out from the crowd, but Hoping this will bring them back Black Panther offers up a pretty together, Jeff excitedly awaits Erin's good effort, even though the restric- arrival at the finish line, but a tertive Marvel formula prevents it from rorist attack not only profoundly really hitting a bullseye. affects his own life, but also those Chadwick Boseman plays close to him. T'Challa, the heir-apparent to the Well directed by David Gordon secretive country of Wakanda. Green, and expertly written by John After his father T'Chaka was Pollono, Stronger is filled with terkilled at a UN bombing, T'Challa rific performances, especially is crowned the new king, and has Gyllenhaal, Maslany, Miranda to decide how to properly rule the Richardson, and Clancy Brown. technologically advanced nation, its The visual effects are quietly outindestructible resources kept hid- standing. den from the world. RATING - ***½ When volatile arms dealer - Aaron Rourke
Lady Bird
Stronger
Black Panther
NEW RELEASES AND COMING SOON TO CINEMAS AROUND AUSTRALIA: FEBRUARY 8: FIFTY SHADES FREED, HAPPY END, INSIDIOUS: THE LAST KEY, MENASHE, STRONGER, TAD THE LOST EXPLORER AND THE SECRET OF KING MIDAS, THE 15:17 TO PARIS. FEBRUARY 15: BLACK PANTHER, CODE GEASS LELOUCH OF THE REBELLION MOVIE, LADY BIRD, THE MONKEY KING 3: KINGDOM OF WOMEN. THE DVD AND BLU-RAY TOP RENTALS & SALES: 1. BAD MOMS 2 [Comedy/Mila Kunis, Kristen Bell, Kathryn Hahn]. 2. SUBURBICON [Comedy/Mystery/Drama/ Matt Damon, Julianne Moore, Oscar Isaac]. 3. BLADE RUNNER 2049 [Sci-Fi/Mystery/ Drama/Ryan Gosling, Harrison Ford, Robin Wright]. 4. THIS BEAUTIFUL FANTASTIC [Comedy/ Fantasy/Drama/Jessica Brown Findlay]. 5. BRAD'S STATUS [Comedy/Drama/Ben Stiller, Michael Sheen, Austin Abrams, Jenna Fischer]. 6. GEOSTORM [Action/Thriller/Sci-Fi/Gerard Butler, Ed Harris, Abbie Cornish]. 7. THE LIMEHOUSE GOLEM [Horror/Thriller/ Bill Nighy, Olivia Cooke, Douglas Booth]. 8. MOTHER! [Mystery/Horror/Jennifer Lawrence, Javier Bardem, Michelle Pfeiffer, Ed Harris]. 9. BATTLE OF THE SEXES [Comedy/Biography/Drama/Emma Stone, Steve Carell]. Also: BRAWL IN CELL BLOCK 99, HOME AGAIN, TOMMY'S HONOUR, THE SNOWMAN, ANOTHER MOTHER'S SON, JIGSAW, THE LOVERS, THE MOUNTAIN BETWEEN US, KINGSMAN: THE GOLDEN CIRCLE, THE FOREIGNER. NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON DVD THIS WEEK: WHAT HAPPENED TO MONDAY? [Sci-Fi/ Crime/Adventure/Noomi Rapace, Willem Dafoe]. NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON BLU-RAY THIS WEEK: FEAR OF THE WALKING DEAD: Season 3. THE DEUCE: Season 1. Z NATION: Season 4. NEW & RE-RELEASE CLASSIC MOVIES ON DVD HIGHLIGHTS: None Listed for This Week. NEW RELEASE TELEVISION, DOCUMENTARY AND MUSIC DVD HIGHLIGHTS: GENIUS: Season 1. FEAR OF THE WALKING DEAD: Season 3. THE DEUCE: Season 1. Z NATION: Season 4. YOUNGER: Season 4. ANIMAL KINGDOM: Season 2. TOP GEAR: The Best of the Specials. - James Sherlock
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Melbourne Obser ver - Wednesday, February 14, 2018 - Page 41
Observer Showbiz
Local Theatre with Cheryl Threadgold and team
Amazing indeed, if not fabulous ■ An exciting event unfolded at the National Theatre last weekend when the worlds of calisthenics and musical theatre combined for the first time, resulting in a highly impressive, enjoyable theatre experience. Amazing Grace is the brainchild of director Karen Jemison, who reconnected with the sport of calisthenics when her niece started competing. Karen was ‘blown away’ by the modern-day calibre of the performers and the choreography. Thirty elite calisthenics dancers presented their various performative styles with impeccable precision, demonstrating impressive grace, suppleness, pizazz and awesomely skilled synchronization of clubs and rods. Choreographers Jeanne Sorich and Lucinda Williams have created terrific, well-devised, well-rehearsed routines which achieve a visually spectacular result. Aesthetics were enhanced by Karen’s expert direction, Christina Logan-Bell’s superb costume design, and effective lighting by Tom Willis. Completing this innovative theatrical partnership were musical director Luke Hunter’s wonderful orchestra and well-credentialed musical theatre performers Thomas McGuane, Samantha Morley and Taneel Van Zyl.
BURLESQUE BY FORCE ■ Behind the curtain lies the truth. Begun with the simple artifice of joining the actor after a performance, the audience is invited into the character’s dressing room. Brodie John plays himself, or so it seems - a gay man revealing to his guest the experience of his life to date. Confrontingly, he has been raped. The shocking revelation is a challenge and an insight into an often unspoken and veiled culture; a culture that has so many parallels with the wider community especially in this age where the #MeToo campaign has heightened our awareness of predatory and inappropriate behaviour. As John undresses, an appropriate process after a performance, he exposes the hurt he has suffered at the hands of bullies at school, at the hands of ignorant fundamentalists, and at the hands of those who take advantage of who he is. The poetic narrative heard as a voice over when the play commenced encapsulates the thoughts and feelings of the protagonist and punctuates the progression of the narrative fleshing out his emotional landscape. The undressing is not an erotic or suggestive act, rather, it is synonymous with the layers being progressively exposed. The voiceover, interestingly, adds dimension but is finally replaced by John’s own exposition of feeling. A final unity of action and feeling has been achieved. These devices may have well been fostered by director/dramaturg, Marissa Bennett. The honesty of the account being given carries the force of the play probably more so than the actual performance for what is raised are very personal issues about which many of us may be ignorant. The uplifting culmination is John’s acceptance and assimilation of his experience – no mean feat – where his strength of character and perspective allows him to move cautiously forward, scarred but not broken, into the future. Burlesque by Force was presented at The Butterfly Club. - Review by David McLean
AMAZING GRACE FOOTNOTE
■ Our Amazing Grace audience neighbour, 18-year-old elite dancer Adele Wawra, broke her arm in a jet-ski accident and sat with her mum watching others perform her roles. Hope we see you onstage next time Adele! Cheryl Threadgold
● Thomas McGuane and calisthenics performers in Amazing Grace
Luke’s fine musicians and Thomas, Samantha and Taneel’s first-class vocal talents added a dynamic dimension, both as soloists, and complementing visuals while dancers skilfully expressed stories, moods and emotions. A high standard production has been achieved by casting elite performers and incorporating the expertise of some of Melbourne’s top theatre practitioners in the fields of orchestration, staging, design and technical. Karen says in the program that Amazing Grace extends calisthenics beyond a competition sport. Indeed, performers presented numbers such as Girls, Girls, Girls and Cell Block Tango with show-biz flair, and rods become elegant canes in Puttin’ on the Ritz. The word ‘calisthenics’ is derived from the Greek words ‘kallos’ and ‘thenos’, meaning beauty and strength. Congratulations to Karen Jemison and her team for showcasing this multidiscipline elite dance sport in a merger with top notch musical theatre performers and musicians. Hopefully Amazing Grace or a similar production will return to Melbourne stages in the future. - Review by Cheryl Threadgold
Latest shows, auditions SHOWS
SHOWS
■ Peridot Theatre: Rumors (by Neil Simon) Until February 17 at the Unicorn Theatre, Mt Waverley Secondary College, Lechte Rd., Mt Waverley. Director: Eyawn Harry. Bookings: 9808 0770. ■ Cardinia Performing Arts Company (CPAC): Annie Until February 24 at the Cardinia Arts and Cultural Centre, Lakeside Boulevard, Pakenham. Director: Lee Geraghty. Bookings: www.cardiniaperformingarts.com ■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: Crossing Delancey (by Susan Sandler) February 16 March 3 at 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Director: Llaaneath Poor. Tickets: $27 Full, $24 Conc. Bookings: 9457 4117 or htc.org.au ■ Brighton Theatre Company: In the Next Room or the Vibrator Play (by Sarah Ruhl) February 15 - March 3 at Brighton Theatre, Cnr Carpenter and Wilson Sts., Brighton. Director: Natasha Boyd. Bookings: 1300 752 126. ■ Malvern Theatre Company: Last Gas (by John Cariani) February 16 - March 3 at Malvern Theatre, 29 Burke Rd., Malvern. Director: Helen Ellis. Bookings:1300 131 152 or www.malverntheatre.com.au ■ The 1812 Theatre: Calendar Girls (by Tim Firth) February 22 - March 17 at The 1812 Theatre, 3-5 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: John Mills. Bookings: www.1812theatre. com.au ■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: All the King's Women (by Luigi Jannazzi) February 16 - March 3 at Shirley Burke Theatre, 64 Parkers Rd., Parkdale. Director: Barbara Crawford, Bookings: 9587 5141 or www.mordialloctheatre.com ■ Eltham Little Theatre: The Importance of Being Earnest (by Oscar Wilde) February 23 March 4 at The Eltham Performing Arts Centre, 1603 Main Rd., Research. Director: Brad Buckingham. Bookings: www.trybooking.com/ book/event?eid=344247 ■ The Basin Theatre Group: It's Never Too Late (by Ron Aldridge) February 16 - March 10 at The Basin Theatre, Cnr Doongalla and Simpsons Rds., The Basin. Director: Christine Grant. Bookings: 1300 784 668 or www.thebasintheatre.org.au ■ Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company: Sylvia (by A. R. Gurney) March 1 - 17 at 39-41 Castella St., Lilydale. Director; Catherine Garside. Bookings: 9735 1777. ■ Strathmore Theatrical Arts Group (STAG): Wait Until Dark (by Frederick Knott) March 1 11 at the Strathmore Communith Centre, Cnr Loeman and Napier Sts., Strathmore. Director: Rhys Purdey. Tickets: $20/$15. Bookings: 9382 6284 or www.stagtheatre.org/reservations ■ Beaumaris Theatre: Chicago March 2 - 17 at Beaumaris Theatre, 82 Wells Rd., Beaumaris. Director: Debbie Keyt; Musical Director:
Rhonda Vaughan; Choreographer: Camilla Klesman. Bookings: www.beaumaristheatre. com.au ■ The Mount Players: The Offshore Island (by Marghanita Laski) March 9 - 25 at 56 Smith St., Macedon. Director: Cherry Servis. Bookings: 5426 1892. ■ Gemco Players Community Theatre: Falling From Grace (by Hannie Rayson) March 9 24 at The Gem Community Theatre, Kilvington Drive. Emerald. Director: Sharon Maine. Bookings: 0419 118 917. ■ Essendon Theatre Company: Old Actors Never Die, They Simply Lose the Plot (by Lynn Brittney) March 15 - 24 at 9 Bradshaw St., Essendon. Director: Dawn Hinrichsen and Alex McMurray. Bookings: 0422 029 483.
AUDITIONS
■ Peridot Theatre Company: A Little Box of Oblivion (Peridot One Act Play Season) (by Stephen Bean), February 18 at 7.00pm at the Unicorn Theatre, Mt Waverley Secondary College, Lechte Rd., Mt Waverley. Director: George Benca. Enquiries: 0419 591 517. ■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: Private Lives (by Noel Coward) February 18 at 1.00pm and February 19 at 7.00pm at 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Director: Karen Wakeham. Enquiries: hamnet84@gmail.com ■ Strathmore Theatrical Arts Group (STAG): Play It Again Sam (by Woody Allen) Audition dates on website www.stagtheatre.org. Director: Lee Cook. Full details www.stagtheatre,org ■ The 1812 Theatre: Dial M For Murder (by Frederick Knott) March 4 at 7.00pm at The 1812 Theatre, 3-5 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Chris Procter. Enquiries: 9754 3081 ■ Brighton Theatre Company: Forget Me Not (by Tom Hollway) may 4 at 2.00pm, May 5 at 7.00pm at Bayside Cultural Centre, Cnr Wilson and Carpenter Sts., Brighton. Director: Annie Blood. Enquiries: 0427 848 118 ■ Peridot Theatre: 84 Charing Cross Road (adapted by James Roose Evans from the book by Helene Hanff, March 4 at 1.00pm and March 6 at 7.30pm at the Unicorn Theatre, Mt Waverley Secondary College, Lechte Rd., Mt Waverley. Director: Horrie Leek. Enquiries: 0412 474 255. ■ Warrandyte Theatre Company: Doubt (by John Patrick Shanley) March 18 at 4.00pm, March 20 at 5.00pm at the Mechanics Institute Hall, Yarra St., Warrandyte. Director: Susan Rundle. Enquiries: 0416 298 136 ■ Peridot Theatre: The Shoe-Horn Sonata (by John Misto) March 25 at 6.30pm, March 27 at 7.30pm at the Unicorn Theatre, Mt Waverley Secondary College, Lechte Rd., Mt Waverley. Director: Alison Knight. Enquiries: a8knight@bigpond.net.au
WORK SHOW
● Image by Michael Camilleri ■ Katherine Connolly’s creative urges run amok in her latest offering Work Show, an exposé into the darker side of the fashion design industry and the monotony of factory work. Based on a social enterprise of sorts, the action takes place on a designer’s factory floor leading up to fashion week. The drone of the sewing machines and the ear-piercing cacophony of bells ringing for tea break effectively create the atmosphere of hard work and drudgery. Written by Connolly, with collaboration from cast and director Vanessa Chapple, the play showcases Connolly as the narcissistic and ambitious designer and as one of the factory workers - streetwise and outspoken. Also on the factory floor are Sara (Louise O’Dwyer) a mournful Eastern Europeanimmigrant with no English or dialogue, Michelle (Bruce Woolley), Brian (Tim Ratcliffe) and later RMIT (work experience?) student (Jalen Lyle-Holmes). Based on Connnolly’s own experience working in a factory, the show has an edgy authenticity, however the narrative is weakened by the sometimes confused and random dialogue and action. It succeeds to some extent in exposing the sometime unethical, corrupt and unsustainable practices of the fashion industry, but falls a little short in spotlighting the complicated human experience of mundane manual labour. The interplay of the DJ (Woolley) as radio host and a kind of voice of conscience for the employees worked well. Performances by Connolly, Woolley, O’Dwyer and LyleHolmes were strong and engaging. Costumes and set design (Pia Guilliatt) were effective and the live music performed by Elissa Michell was delightful. Billed at 45 minutes this ambitious and worthwhile production went for well over an hour which suggests a little more work is needed to bring a stronger focus and purpose to the piece. Dates: Until February 18. Time: Wed 6.30pm; Thu, Fri, Sat, 7.30pm; Sun 4pm. Cost: $30 / $20. Venue: La Mama Theatre, 349 Drummond St, Carlton. Tickets: www.lamama.com.au or 9347 6142 - Review by Beth Klein
Page 42 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 14, 2018
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Solution on Page 39
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 14, 2018 - Page 43
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Observer Victorian Sport Melbourne
Many noms for Aust. Guineas
■ The Australian Guineas for three year-olds at set weights to be run at Flemington on Saturday March 3, has attracted 112 nominations for the classic worth more than $1 million. Among the entries are star filly, Aloisia, who started favourite in last year's Oaks, but failed to run the journey and will be better suited here. Anchor Bid, from the Darren Weir camp, is another good galloper who has been nominated. Promising sprinter Bravo Tango was disappointing at his last start, but his trainer Mitch Freedman feels he still has plenty to learn and don't dismiss him. Blue Diamond Stakes winner, the brilliant filly Catchy, will stretch her ability over the 1600 metres of the Australian Guineas, and according to the Hayes-Dabernig camp she will be suited over the 1600 metres especially the wide sections of the Flemington track. The talented filly, Bring Me Roses, prepared by leading trainer, Tony McEvoy, won't have any trouble with the trip. Mc Evoy won the Australian Guineas last year with his good galloper, Hey Doc, who he has entered for the Newmarket. Cliff's Edge is another top entry from the Weir camp, and was most impressive first-up winning at Caulfield. Levendi, from the Peter Gelagotis stable, is one with plenty of ability and is another who won't be worried with the 1600 metre journey. One from the powerful Trent BusuttinNatalie Young team, Main Stage, is one that could be hard to beat after a good third in the Victoria Derby. Top Caulfield trainer, Mick Price, has entered his Caulfield Guineas winner, Mighty Boss, claiming he has improved on his good win in the Guineas at Caulfield, and rates him highly for the Australian Guineas come March 3. The filly, Paris Rock, completed a hat track from her only three starts, and is in the strong Henry Dwyer stable at St Leonards, is at the peak of her form and will give it a shake. The talented horse from the Anthony Freedman barn, Shoals, is one who will take beating after a big spring. The stable has a big opinion of the horse and feels she is weight for age class. Of the others among early picks is the talented colt Vinland from the Tony Mc Evoy yard is another with a ton of ability, while Weapon, in the care of Trent Busuttin and Natalie Young, is promising. First acceptances for the Australian Guineas will close at 12 Noon, next Tuesday, February 20, for a fee of $ 440 per entry.
Newmarket noms
■ Nominations have been taken for $ 1,255,000 Newmarket Handicap up the straight six, over 1200 metres at Flemington on Saturday March 10. In all 56 nominations of the country's best sprinters, have been nominated for the classic. Darren Weir has nominated his international galloper, Brave Smash, who failed to flatter recently, but is much better than that run. Bravo Tango is a dual nom, as well as the Australian Guineas he has been ticked to run also in the Newmarket, as explained earlier he is better than his last run. The great sprinter, Chautauqua, will have another crack at the big one, and if handy in the run would be the one to beat. The promising Crown Witness has been nominated by Henry Dwyer, and would get in with a handy weight. Hey Doc is one of the most interesting runners, having won the Australian Guineas, he has proved himself up the straight 1200 metres, will be hard to toss. The three-year-old, Merchant Navy, a winner of five of his six starts, could be one of the main chances. His only missed placing was on a heavy track when he raced in Sydney, but failed to handle the reverse way of racing. Star young sprinter, Nature Strip, in the care of Robert Hickmott, for the recently named
● Jockey Michael Dee holds the injured Gingernuts, prior to the running of the Emirates Stakes. Racing Photos. Neerim Group, formerly Aquanita Lodge, is Last year's, Newmarket Handicap winner, very smart. Redkirk Warrior, has been nominated again, One from Matthew Ellerton-Simon Zahra, and will right on the pace. that is smart, is Prezado, who stretched the neck Champion sprinter Redzel, in the strong Peof Nature Strip up the straight at Flemington. ter and Paul Snowden team, who put together a string of wins including the rich Everest in Sydney, will start favourite, and will once again be the one to beat. The Snowden team has entered another top galloper, Russian Revolution, who on his day is always hard to beat. Golden Slipper winner, She Will Reign, has been nominated and with her outstanding pace could break up the field early. Snitty Kitty will lead them a merry dance, but the strong 1200 metres up, the straight at Flemington in this field, I feel will find her out. Then are the two good sprinters, Super Cash, with Andrew Noblett, and the flying Supido with Mick Kent, both good on their day. First acceptances close at 12 Noon, on Tuesday February 20, for a fee of $880.
Ted Ryan
Great news, ‘Nuts
■ Top New Zealand stayer, Gingernut,s is on his way home, after suffering a serious leg injury three months ago at Flemington during the Melbourne Cup Carnival. It was touch and go, as he battled the elements not only the injury, but fears he might have had to put down. Thanks to all the Werribee Racing Research Clinic, who have done a wonderful job in saving the classic winner. On his way to the barrier for the Emirates Stakes on the last day of the Carnival on November he injured his leg. He was operated on at the Werribee Research Clinic in December, later the leg became infected, but thanks to the great team, he pulled through. Connections said they he would continue his rehabilitation in New Zealand, hopefully to race him again. - Ted Ryan
● Top Sprinter, Redzel, wins the Darley Classic in great style. Racing Photos.
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Wine Column Blood of Jupiter
■ John Rozentals ponders the clonal basis of the upsurge of sangiovese rosés. It seems that sangiovese has taken over as the prime source of rosé in Australia. Just about every bottle of pink wine that has recently landed on my tasting bench seems to be made from this most ubiquitous of just about all Italian red grape varieties, whose name literally means "blood of Jupiter". It would be interesting to know what the clonal material behind this explosion is. Grapevines are propagated from cuttings and different source materials show variations that are known as clones. The 'brunello' and 'piccolo' sangiovese clones produce small, quite intensely flavoured and coloured berries, and I suspect that they go mainly into producing 'normal' red tablewines. The 'grosso' clone, on the other hand, produces larger berries, which carry a lower skin - and hence pigment - to juice ratio and are therefor ideally suited for producing lighter-bodied wines such as rosé. That's certainly the case at Angullong, near Orange. It produces two completely different wines from sangiovese - a medium-bodied dry red from the 'brunello' and 'piccolo' clones, and a rosé from its plantings of the 'grosso' clone. It would be interesting to know if my suspicions on clonal origin have any weight. WINE REVIEWS Lovers Not Toreadors 2015 Rosé ($25): There's no hint of the varietal make-up of this wine, but I just couldn't ignore the striking bull-fighting packaging of this vibrant Spaniard. The wine is good, too - lots of fresh berry flavours and a lashing of herbs. It's an ideal match for many tapas-style dishes, especially those involving jamon or thinly sliced ham. Freixenet NV Prosecco ($25): Another Spanish wine that in its flavour completely lives up to its stunning cut-glass packaging. Fruit flavours of tangy citrus and freshly cut green apples dominate here and I'd be having a glass as an aperitif before something more serious with dinner. Freixenet, by the way, is one of the world's largest producers of sparkling wines. WINE OF THE WEEK Chapel Hill 2017 Sangiovese Rosé ($20): This racy, almost crunchy, style typifies the new seriously dry rosés emerging from Australia in recent years. Winemaker Michael Fragos has used sangiovese from McLaren Vale to fashion a delightful wine packed with the attractive fresh flavours of raspberries and cherries. It's clean, it's juicy, it's yum.
● Michael Fragos has fashioned a delightful dry rosé from sangiovese.
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Michael Dempsey Heritage Conservations Pty Ltd
• Genuine Equipment • Genuine Quality Duct Cleaning & Repairs • Genuine 19 years’ experience
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CONCRETING
ALL RENDERING AND PLASTERING • Internal and External • Traditional and Modern Mike 0412 353 007 PLUMBING
CRAIG’S GAS & PLUMBING Specialist in Gas Appliance Service & Installation
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0499 773 569
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Phone: 9379 1733 www.craigsgas.com.au LIC 33201
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 14, 2018 - Page 51
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