This is a show that explodes open with chaos and empty wine bottles. To “Que sera sera” on the soundtrack, the Aunt Agony of the title attempts to straighten up her disordered life in hilarious fashion. Straight away the audience fell for her disarming beige-ness and we cheered this manipulating manic psycho through the next 90 minutes.
AUNT AGONY is the story of Christine (Sasha Dyer) who just wants a quiet, free room in the ‘burbs to lick her wounds from a failed relationship. With no support from her mother or male menopause father, she ends up with Aunt Lynn (Taylor Owynns). Aunt Lynn has changed since the death of her mother and Christine is in for a ride. Plus, there seems to be a mystery here somewhere. Not least of all what Auntie sees in Tommy (Dave Kirkham) the revolting building caretaker who can’t even use the toaster!
This production is part of the Fringe Festival with a typically simple set and lighting but it doesn’t seem like a short season show. With constant action and movement, it flows the way only a well-rehearsed performance can. The script is delicious with topical political references and a decidedly Sydney vocabulary. There is a definite bad language warning though … a bit too much language really. The delivery is rapid fire in places and deftly paused in others. The direction is never static and uses all the available space, even enlisting the sofa back and a front row seat as extra acting levels. It’s worth the price of admission for the scene changes which are so simple yet brilliant that the audience applauded.
Apart from the direction and script, it is Taylor Owynns who dominates the play. Her technique is incredibly subtle. She never appears to be waiting for a laugh to finish and yet she never steps on a line. She ranges about the stage with clear physicality, a strong voice, great diction even when she is off and wonderful timing. Sasha Dyer is a match for her in most scenes and they have a clear, charming rapport. What fun. 5 ham and Edam toasties from me.
Sadly, this show is only four performances from 16-22nd September at the New Theatre, Newtown.
Thank you Judith! We are loving your review!
Much appreciated by cast, director and crew!
May you never have to shave another table leg!!!! 🙂
I’m seeing the play on Sunday night. Can’t wait to see Taylor Owynns on stage again. She is a wonderful comic actor not seen often enough on Sydney stages.