A Streetcar Named Desire: The Old Mill Theatre
It was with great trepidation that I crossed the Swan River to the Old Mill’s production of A Streetcar named Desire only because it has been many years since I attended an amateur production.
As we crossed the threshold into the bar there was an immediate sense of community, like entering a different era or an English country pub. Everyone knew each other and the box office staff greeted us warmly. Glasses of sherry were set out for the opening night crowd to enjoy and as we wandered through the quaint little rooms, the sense of another time seeped in. Small details like roads signs to Elysian Fields were absorbed and part of the ambience. Once we were seated we noted the set was substantial and well thought out – very reminiscent of the Elia Kazan production.
In all, the performances were mixed. The cast was well rehearsed and directed, however the two lead women held the show together. Jenny McCann who played Blanche did a sterling job; with the right amount of vulnerability and provocativeness. Gemma Northover as Stella slowly relaxed into the role and by the second act had the right air of tragic susceptibility. Jenny’s last scene was delicately poignant and a credit to both actor and director (Dannielle Ashton). Stephen Roberts who played Stanley Kowalski was very ‘Brando-esque’ but lacked the underlying threat of malice – so his explosive outbursts seemed slightly contrived. However, he was very easy on the eye!
The sheer genius of Williams’ language was well executed and still resonates with contemporary audiences. The themes of domestic violence, alcoholism and post traumatic stress every bit as relevant today.
To sum up at $20 ($15 concession) it was an absolute cracker of a night out.
A Streetcar Named Desire: The Old Mill Theatre
The heritage-listed Old Mill Theatre is on the corner of Mends Street and Mill Point Road, South Perth (opposite the Windsor Hotel).
Plays at: 8pm, July 16, 17, 18, 22, 23, 24 and 25 with a 2pm matinee on July 19
Bookings: 9367 8719
