Sunnybank Theatre was the perfect venue for the world premiere of Centre Stage – A Variety Spectacular. Produced and directed by the multi-talented William “The Juggler” Piper, the show was expertly emceed by William himself, who not only hosted but also juggled, performed magic, and had the audience laughing and participating throughout. One of the funniest moments was a balloon routine featuring a delightful five-year-old volunteer. William’s strong stage presence and obvious passion for providing up-and-coming performers with opportunities to showcase their talents set the tone for the show.
Young hip-hopper Tyrese Jok opened the show with a high-energy routine, earning cheers and applause from the appreciative audience. Dancer Macca Cloke and singer Eliza Cullerton brought Broadway to Sunnybank with sequins, soaring high notes, and undeniable flair. Former Australian representatives at the Acrobatic World Championships, Lisa Gardiner and Mia Krone, defied gravity with two spectacular acrobatic routines that had the audience holding its breath more than once.
William conceived the idea for Centre Stage in 2025, and this inaugural performance set a high standard for future productions. By the final curtain, Centre Stage had done exactly what its name promises — giving performers a moment in the spotlight and audiences an afternoon to remember.
Adapting a novel with a storied history, such as Agatha Christie’s “And Then There Were None,” is no small feat. The novel has sold over 100 million copies and has been adapted countless times for visual media. Pleasingly, the Sunnybank Theatre Group’s current production of this classic story is a very successful interpretation. Director Chris O’Leary has adeptly led his team of actors and crew to bring what is a faithful and engaging rendition of one of Agatha Christie’s most famous works to the stage.
Opening night provided a few nerves for the cast and crew who had unfortunately been unable to perform a planned Preview show earlier in the week. However, a clearly well-rehearsed team on and off stage ensured there were very few bumps in both performance and production.
Standout performances were delivered by Ashlee Hermann as Vera Claythorne, Weylin Martens-Mullane as Anthony Marston (and Fred Narracott), and Diane Watson as Miss Emily Brent.
Ashlee Hermann’s portrayal of the young Secretary was nuanced, and she skilfully conveyed the character’s inner turmoil. Hermann’s performance peaked in the scenes where Vera reveals her secrets, with Hermann conveying the weight of the character’s burden very successfully. Mention must be made of Hermann’s most excellent off-stage scream. It was so terror-inducing that audience members visibly jumped in their seats!
Weylin Martens-Mullane a relative newcomer to the theatre delivered exceptional performances as both Anthony Marston and Narracott. Martens-Mullane proved his versatility, adroitly transitioning between the two characters. His portrayal of Anthony Marston was particularly noteworthy with the audience visibly riled by the sense of entitlement and “devil-may-care” attitude he brought to the role of the young British aristocrat.
Diane Watson possesses an excellent theatrical pedigree and brought this to bear in her impressive performance as Miss Emily Brent. Watson’s performance brought a sense of authority and poise to the character and her scenes with the other characters were particularly engaging. Watson very skilfully delivered the character’s lack of compassion and empathy which underpinned her fanatical beliefs, however on the lighter side, Watson will have finished a cardigan by the end of the run, such were her skills with the knitting needles and wool that were integral to her scenes!
The remainder of the cast performed commendably, with each performer inhabiting their character and clearly relishing the opportunity to bring the story to life for their first audience. The set design was well-thought-out, with attention to detail that successfully transported the audience to the isolated island where the action takes place. The lighting design was effective in heightening the tension and suspense to create an immersive experience.
In addition to impressive production values and excellent performances, the Sunnybank Theatre Group offers a complimentary glass of sparkling wine on opening nights (served by some of the friendliest volunteer bar staff around). This generous perk certainly added an extra level of enjoyment to the evening. With standout performances, strong direction, and solid production values this production of “And Then There Were None” is not to be missed. Highly recommended for a fun night out at the theatre to anyone who loves a good mystery. The production runs until 6 May 2023.
