Navigating the urban sprawl that finally leads to Coburg is in itself a scary task, but in order to find this hidden gem, it’s a worthwhile trip. A Midnight Dreary is a quartet of classic and contemporary horror stories that have been masterfully adapted into a captivating theatrical performance featuring an accomplished and wonderful performance by the very talented actor Stefan Taylor. Yes, it’s creepy, but possessing enough humour and charm to save what could’ve become either a relentlessly grim night of torture, or a high-brow literary bore-fest. Thankfully, A Midnight Dreary is neither.
First on the bill is easily the most iconic tale, Edgar Allan Poe’s classic The Raven (1845), from which the production takes its title. Given its many adaptations (everyone from Vincent Price to Christopher Walken have done versions; there’s even been a sketch on The Simpsons), it’s a big ask, especially for an opener, as comparisons are inevitable, not to mention the linguistic gymnastics that Poe demands. Thankfully, Taylor’s stage presence and resonating baritone – two of his greatest strengths – allow him to handle the knife-edge task of juggling Poe’s florid alliteration without falling into Vincent Price-style hamminess. He allows the language do the work. The Raven is still a powerful piece of work and this version reminds us why.
Although Taylor is always strong, it is with The Open Window (1900) by Saki (adapted into a film under the title of The Open Doors in 2004) and The House on the Lake (2010) by Mark Newton (the only contemporary piece of the performance, and wonderfully written) that he excels. Utilizing a background in sketch comedy, he switches between multiple characters, ranging from a young child and an upper class socialite to a villain, with clarity and aplomb. The production never becomes confusing, which is one of the most common traps that has marred many a successful solo performance. Remarkably, this production never makes this mistake, making for a spooky and entertaining experience.
A Midnight Dreary also features expert direction by Helen McFarlane, an elegant but minimalist stage setting, and a first-rate sound and lighting design from Billy Tea – eerie, compelling but never distracting. This is a refreshing take on classic storytelling, utterly inspired and, no never Dreary; no frills independent theatre done right. Miss it at your peril.
Rating: 4 ½ stars out of 5
A Midnight Dreary
Director: Helen McFarlane
Writers: Edgar Allan Poe, Saki, Ambrose Bierce & Mark Newton
Producer: Simon J. Green
Performer: Stefan Taylor
Samurai AV, Coburg
18 September – 04 October
Melbourne Fringe Festival
www.melbournefringe.com.au
18 September – 6 October
