Review: Blowing Whistles

Blowing Whistles by Matthew Todd
Downstairs Belvoir St Theatre


It’s Mardi Gras season and in case you weren’t aware, theatres, bars and galleries across the city are putting on celebratory events that culminate in the big Oxford St parade.

One of the big events is theatre production Blowing Whistles which is appropriately set on the night before the big Mardi Gras parade. Living in the inner city of Sydney, Jamie and Nigel are celebrating their tenth anniversary when the two decide to spice up the celebration and go online to entice young Mark to come over for the night.

Like many long-term relationships, time has pulled Jamie and Nigel apart. Mark’s presence magnifies this great emotional distance which culminates in challenging their desire to repair the bridges.

Blowing Whistles by UK writer Matthew Todd was originally produced in London and has been adapted by Focus Theatre for Australian audiences. Adaptations of British plays in Australia often don’t work because of the stark social differences and attitudes. This play, however, breaks the mold and captures a spirit of Sydney that is unique.

Central to its success is the sharp and biting humour of the playwright whose jokes neatly translate with local references. Particularly in the first half of the production, wave upon wave of laughter will ensure that this play is a crowd favourite at this time of year.

Unfortunately, the production is bogged down by a script that could afford numerous cuts and some staging that needs to be a lot tighter. But with extremely charismatic performances, this production is a relief from often less than successful Mardi Gars festival fare.


Belvoir St Downstairs, 25 Belvoir St Surry Hills
$25-32
02 9699 3444 www.belvoir.com


Image credit: Bob Seary