KAYAK @ THE OLD FITZ

Above- Francesca Savige. Featured photo- Matilda Ridgway.
Above- Francesca Savige. Featured photo- Matilda Ridgway. Production photography by Mansoor Noor.

The Old Fitz Theatre has gained iconic status since opening its doors twenty years ago.  The intimate sixty-seat pub theatre has introduced new Australian playwrights and hosted many great talents including Tim Minchin, Kate Mulvany, Toby Schmitz and Benito Di Fonzo.

In late 2014, Red Line Productions moved into the Old Fitz with Artistic Director Andrew Henry, Executive Director Vanessa Wright and Associate Producer and Artist Sean Hawkins at the helm.

With experienced theatrical backgrounds and contagious creativity, Red Line has given The Old Fitz new life and generated great public enthusiasm.Late night shows at 9.30 are proving to be a great success and currently showing is the one-act play KAYAK, written by award-winning playwright and screenwriter Katherine Thomson.

Feeling blissfully serene while paddling on the harbour in her kayak, Ruth (played with focus and energy by Francesca Savige), is tormented by two menacing teenagers in a fishing tinnie, circling Ruth and throwing donuts at her.

Ruth seeks revenge by tracking down the offending teenager, Luke, who is living with his aunty and guardian, Wen.  Let the games begin.

Matthew Cheetham plays Luke with mystery and complexity, so you’re never quite sure of the truth.

His guardian, Wen, is played by the tantalising and talented Matilda Ridgway.  Wen is full of surprises and Ridgway brings great humour and playfulness to her role.

Thomson’s script, full of intriguing twists and turns, keeps the audience guessing until the end. Combined with the comfortable atmosphere of The Old Fitz, audiences can expect a great night of theatre.

KAYAK runs at the Old Fitzroy Hotel until the 9th of April.