âThe best griever that church had ever seen!â
A review of “The Life and Death of Harry Bennett” at The Sky Theatre, Manly.
Play Title: The Life and Death of Harry Bennett
Playwright: Barbara Courtille
Director: Annie Gurton
Venue: The Sky Theatre, Manly.
My Rating: âââ / 5
âThe Life and Death of Harry Bennettâ, by local playwright Barbara Courtille, tells the story of Harry Bennett, a celebrated investigative journalist who has spent his life trying to be the best by telling the personal stories of others. A strange encounter leads him to having to face his own story as he finds himself being led through the unknown by unsympathetic mystical beings. Whilst he is being encouraged to complete the unfinished business of a lifetime, this production provides the audience with a surreal and humorous look into the world of the beyond and the true meaning of life. On walking into the endearingly traditional proscenium-arched theatre, one is struck by the Manly Theatre Groupâs professionalism, creativity, and community warmth. Relaxation and anticipation begin immediately.
Professor Plimpt, played by Phillipa Coleman and Harry Bennett played by John Cross, opened the play with immersive energy and flare. Phillipa held us with her character believability and presence, and Johnâs commitment to role was top notch. The strength of this opening scene engaged and delighted the audience and set the tone for the unfolding of this amusing and complex tale. The Mother, Plants, Automaton and Yoga Teachers played by Liz, John, Dharma, Maureen, Sophia and Jessica, embodied their roles with presence, nuance and commitment. Working as a cohesive unit the storyâs complexities unfolded through the focus of each player in their role.
The stage of this glorious little theatre was utilised to great visual effect to create a minimal set that was successfully ambitious, fitting the space as well as the theme of the story. The strong, artistic, surreality of this story was creatively emulated through the costuming (or lack there of!) and prop design which was a delight to encounter for each character and scene; respectful nod to the designer and creator of the giant shredder and other seemingly impossible visual creations. Whether being surprised by the entrance of a fruity bike, empathising the need for tumeric-coconut chai over a speedy entrance into work or wondering at the prowess with which each performer wrangled their numerous and often bulky props the fullness of the creative design of “The Life and Death of Harry Bennett” will delight your interest.
One must also note the lighting and sound design which immersed the audience in the strangeness and clarity of this quirky tale.
Overall, this production is a viewing that will make you laugh and wonder. It is perfect for fans of comedy and the surreal and will leave you thinking about how one chooses to live their life, remind us that overwatering plants can be fatal and that maybe OH&S really is a necessity to manage lifeâs risks.
To book tickets to Life & Death of Harry Bennett, please visit https://www.manlytheatregroup.com/.
