PACKED LUNCH @ THE EXCHANGE HOTEL

Packed Lunch 1

Talk only in euphemisms. That was one of the instructions in one of many funny scenarios created by James Hartley in his new show. Presented at the glorious Exchange Hotel, Balmain, the bright cast entertained and amused the crowd in scenarios involving swallowing an alien, a scientist testing levels of annoyance, and the many possibilities that arise as the result of a volatile love affair.

This production comprised a series of improvised skits in which a brief scenario is presented and some or all of the actors have to respond and present material. The scenarios presented were cheerfully disconcerting and the responses by the actors from the show’s troupe, The Upper Crass Players, were dramatic, sharp and witty.

Their bright performances were the strength of this production. Atlas Adams, Brenton Amies, Alice Furze, Tom Green, Beth McMullen, James Hartley and James Shepherd made up The Upper Crass Players and their enthusiasm, diverse skills and joyous humour were a real delight. They quickly produced dramatic storylines to engage the audience in both a thoughtful and playful experience.

The second half of Packed Lunch involved James Hartley talking about some bizarre news articles he had found and having the cast improvise responses and commentaries on these weird articles. The actors had lots of fun riffing on the articles. A news item about the banning of strippers at Chinese funerals lends itself exceedingly well to comedy.

Adding to the entertainment was the musical accompaniment by the talented Chris Dendle on keyboards. Sound operator was Bokkie Robertson.

Summing up, PACKED LUNCH was a highly entertaining show. The audience responded well to the talent and vibrancy of the performers. The show was on for one night only at Balmain’s Exchange Hotel but will be performed in September as part of the Sydney Fringe Festival.