Purists of Oscar Wilde be warned – this production is not for you or the faint-hearted. Little Ones Theatre under the direction of Stephen Nicolazzo has dished up a high-camp gender bending tale about religion, sexuality and the desire to be different in Salomé.
For those who don’t know this religious tale, Two young men are alone in a palace; one is in love with the Princess Salomé, the other in love with his friend. When Salomé arrives she only has eyes for John the Baptist, a prophet who warns all deviants that the saviour Jesus Christ is on his way.
Compelled by his abstinence and pious will, Salomé stops at nothing to “know” him biblically. As the moon grows brighter, erotic energy takes over the royal court and the lines between civility and desire are blurred…
Nicolazzo has turned everything about this tale on its head delivering a highly entertaining and delirious production with a cast that includes Paul Blenheim, Genevieve Giuffre, Alexandra Aldrich, Nick Pelomis, Peter Paltos, Zoe Boesen and Tom Dent.
Standout performances are given by Paul Blenheim who presents a solidly prissy Salomé resplendent in a stunning matadors outfit, Genevieve Giuffre as the drawly Southern Belle inspired John the Baptist and Tom Dent and his androgynous portrayal of Namaan the Executioner.
Choreographer Kurt Phelan’s interpretation of the dance of the seven veils is one of the many highlights within this production and has to be seen to be believed. Eugyeene Teh’s design of blue faux satin curtains is simply effective and allow the performer to indulge the stage.
The 80’s soundtrack underscores the production that will have you hearing ‘Dance for me Salome‘ long after the curtain has closed.
Director: Stephen Nicolazzo Featuring: Paul Blenheim, Genevieve Giuffre, Alexandra Aldrich, Nick Pelomis, Peter Paltos, Zoe Boesen and Tom Dent Set Design: Eugyeene Teh Costume Design: Tessa Leigh Wolffenbuttel Pitt and Eugyeene Teh Lighting Design: Katie Sfetkidis Sound Design: Nate Edmondson Dramaturgy/Adaptation: Natalia Savvides Choreography: Kurt Phelan
Salomé
Malthouse Tower Theatre – 113 Sturt Street, Southbank
Performance: 30 August 2013 – 8.00pm
Season continues to 14 September 2013
Bookings: (03) 9685 5111 or online at www.malthousetheatre.com.au
For more information, visit: www.littleonestheatre.com.au for details.
Review: Rohan Shearn Image: Tom Dent as Namaan the Executionor by Sarah Walker
