Written By Duncan Ley
Directed by Duncan
Driver
Everyman Theatre
Presented by the Q
Theatre, Queanbeyan
31 July – 10 August,
2014
Review by Len Power
31 July 2014
Local
writer, Duncan Ley, had a much deserved success with ‘The Burning’ when it was
first staged in Canberra in 2001. It’s
good to see it getting another run here.
Set
in the early 1600s in Germany, it focuses on a witchcraft trial where a young
lawyer, Francis Schiller, has to defend himself against accusations of
witchcraft by the feared Inquisitor, Ernest Vasolt. It’s disturbing to see from subsequent
history that we haven’t come very far at all since that time. There is an additional modern day resonance
in the play with an exploration of the troubled relationship than can occur
between fathers and sons.
The
simple set, designed and built by members of the company, has been enhanced
with appropriate and subtle art work by scenic artist, Wayne Shepherd. Kelly McGannon’s moody lighting heightens the
overall effect and the music by Tim Hansen adds depth to the atmosphere of the play. Costumes by Jarrad West, Duncan Ley and
Marion West nicely evoked the period.
In
the role of Ernest Vasolt, Duncan Ley gives a controlled and chilling
performance as a fanatic who has lost sight of his humanity. Jarrad West as the Bishop, Phillip Schiller,
gives a heartfelt performance that the audience can really relate to. Will Huang gives one of his best performances
ever as the creepy Frederick Vasolt. I
didn’t realize it was Will until I looked in the program at interval. There is also good work from Tony Turner, Amy
Dunham, Peter Holland and Geoffrey Borny and the rest of the cast in the
smaller roles. Jack Parker’s
characterisation of Francis Schiller has the right depth but his diction needs
to be clearer with more light and shade in his delivery, especially during the
interrogation scene in the courtroom.
Director,
Duncan Driver, has produced a thought-provoking production of this excellent
play with strong characterisations from his cast. It’s harrowing in its torture descriptions
but there is no physical violence shown.
It’s an important play that deserves to be seen.
Originally
broadcast on Artsound FM 92.7 ‘Dress Circle’ showbiz program with Bill Stephens
on Sunday 3 August 2014 from 5pm.
