Step back in time for an audio (and visual) treat
Four accomplished actors take us back to the 1950s era of radio drama, performing two classic mysteries.
Upon entering the Vines Room at the National Wine Centre, the set up and atmosphere felt refined and sophisticated. The impeccably dressed and dapper performers were already mingling about on stage and their presence created an anticipatory and delightful energy. The room was air conditioned (an important feature during an Adelaide summer Fringe!), with comfortable chairs and its own bar offering a selection of beverages and antipasto platters.
Although radio drama traditionally doesn’t have a visual component, the actors were on stage for us to watch and their animation was a joy to see. The dialogue, music and perfectly timed sound effects all combined to ignite the imagination of the audience, as we followed the adventures of two private detectives, Candy Matson and Johnny Dollar as they investigated and solved murder mysteries.
Eden Trebilco playing Johnny Dollar and also Rembrandt was a stand out, with his cheekiness, verve and brilliance. He also had the greatest number of hilarious lines, which he performed with aplomb. The other cast members of Benjamin Maio Mackay, Julia Sciacca, and Jennifer Barry were also very talented and collectively their enjoyment and passion for their craft shone through their creative storytelling.
I found myself whispering out loud, “I think he did it!, preempting the big reveal but caught up in the moment like the participation in a pantomime. There were actually a couple of “Watch out, behind you!” moments as well!
Based on this appreciative, full house audience, this show will appeal to, and be enjoyed by, a large range of people and offers a very entertaining glimpse into a bygone era.
Reviewed by Samantha Tipler and photo courtesy of the artists.
Tickets available for their last show on 24 February 2018, at the Vines Room, National Wine Centre, Adelaide.
https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/great-detectives-af2018
