SECRET HOUSE PRESENTS ‘THE WINTER’S TALE’ @ THE DEPOT THEATRE

“Yes there is a bear in there.” This is the chase: I am gone for ever! [Exit pursued by a bear.]

THE WINTER’S TALE is one of William Shakespeare’s problem plays, a tragic romantic comedy with many a twist in the tale, its multiple moods offer a challenge that requires expert direction, and a cast capable of fine ensemble work.

This huge cast of seventeen actors, brilliantly deliver this wonderful Shakespearean epic of revenge, passion, insane unwarranted jealousy, cruelty and regret.

The stage direction [Exit pursued by a bear] gives every director a severe problem that needs to be solved during the rehearsal process. Secret House director, Sean O’Riordan, has magnificently solved “the bear issue” immediately generating applause from the entire audience on opening night.

Liam O’Keefe has provided a lighting design, that is an integral and crucial element in transforming each and every scene. Isabel Hudson has delivered a clever set design that works perfectly for each scene. Costumes also make the difference, and the on stage costume changes are a highlight, especially the unique disguises chosen by King Polixenes and Camillo, which brought howls of laughter from the audience.

Recorded music sequences were well chosen, and they always always complemented and enhanced the theatrical experience. Also there was some live playing of guitar and violin by members of the cast.

The first three Acts deliver constant intense psychological drama, and after interval the last two acts are very comedic, leading to a completely unexpected happy ending.

King Leontes is insane with unfounded jealousy, and decides that his pregnant wife, the virtuous and beautiful Queen Hermione, was unfaithful and carries the child of Bohemian King Polixenes. He goes on to bring about the death of his wife and their newborn daughter and his son. He then orders Camillo to murder King Polixenes, instead King Polixenes and Camillo sail to Bohemia to escape the tyrant King. The King becomes consumed by guilt, until at the end of the play, he is unjustly rewarded for his tyranny.

This show will have you both laughing and crying. You will be moved and captivated by the magic of this vividly performed, theatrical experience.

Starring: Jane Angharad, Alison Benstead, Alana Birtles, Russell Cronin, Laura Djanegara, Alec Ebert, Neil Sun Hyland, Derbail Kinsella, Dave Kirkham, Grace Naoum, Roger Smith, James Smithers, Romney Stanton, Charles Upton, Richard Woodhouse, Emma Wright, Danen Young.

Production Stills by Liam O’Keefe.

Secret House presents THE WINTER’S TALE from 27th September until 7th October 2017.

Performance times – 8pm Wed-Sun and 5pm Sundays.

Duration two hours and forty minutes, including one interval.
The Depot Theatre, 142 Addison Road, Marrickville, with on-site free car parking.

http://thedepottheatre.com/the-winter-s-tale
https://www.facebook.com/thedepottheatre/
https://www.secrethouse.com.au/the-winter-s-tale
https://www.facebook.com/secrethouseco/
https://www.trybooking.com/book/sessions?eid=248104
https://whatson.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/venues/the-depot-theatre
http://www.sydney.com/destinations/sydney/inner-sydney/marrickville/events/the-winters-tale