The Vic Theatre Company have set themselves a big challenge by choosing to present Loving Repeating as their debut production as part of this year’s Midsumma Festival. The musical sets Gertrude Stein’s unique poetry to music and presents a kaleidoscopic abstract exploration of her life, relationships and the themes prevalent in her extensive oeuvre. There is no traditional ‘plot,’ in true Stein style lyrics are constantly repeated and the score by Broadway composer Stephen Flaherty is beautifully complicated and eclectic. This production succeeds on every level; Loving Repeating is a sweet, sexy and satisfying night at the theatre.
The casting of Australian theatre legend Deidre Rubenstein as Stein is a stroke of genius by director Jason Langley and his team. Rubenstein’s expert grasp of language, flawless diction and the delightful musical flow of her voice is the perfect instrument to deliver Stein’s poetry to an audience. The lengthy monologues in Frank Galati’s script never feel monotonous thanks to Rubenstein’s passionate, cheeky and joyous performance. The choice to have Stein stand at a lecture podium for most of the show becomes a bit static, but whenever Rubenstein breaks away from her corner and interacts with the ensemble it’s like a breath of fresh air. Rubenstein anchors this production of Loving Repeating and the rest of the cast orbit around her powerful central performance.
Speaking of the ensemble, what a phenomenal group of performers! According to the program notes the cast only had two weeks of rehearsal. The passion, commitment and cohesion demonstrated by these actors on opening night is to be commended. This is a highly physical production and the talented cast executes Michael Ralph’s gloriously inventive choreography with style and flair. They’re also an attractive bunch; there’s lots of flesh on display, groping and kissing throughout the show.
Caitlin Berry plays a feisty Young Gertrude at the beginning of the piece and her crystal clear voice shines in ‘A Sonatina Song.’ Gillian Cosgriff is a stand out playing a young version of Stein’s lifelong lover Alice B Toklas and her jazzy rendition of the song ‘A Large and Loose Caramel’ is a musical highlight of the evening. Vincent Hooper’s powerful voice also soars during the ‘Such a One’ sequence towards the end of the show.
The set design by Nathan Weyers features large panels and rostras covered in a deep red rose design, complimenting the sensual nature of the musical. Daniel Harvey’s costume designs run the gamut from traditional conservative 19th century blouses and skirts through to glitzy Bob Fosse style hot pants and vests. Marcello Lo Ricco’s sound design ensures that the audience hears every gorgeous note played by Ben Kiley’s accomplished seven-piece band. The only letdown in the production design is the lighting. There were many late cues, some scenes were played out in near darkness and there were also constant distracting flashes throughout the length of the show. There must have been some kind of technical fault on opening night.
Vic Theatre Company’s Loving Repeating is the perfect show for Midsumma; it celebrates a pivotal figure in queer history played by one of our country’s great actors, features fearless young performers and lots of bare muscles. I’m off to renew my gym membership.
Rating: 4 out of 5 starts
Loving Repeating
Chapel Off Chapel, Prahran
Presented by Vic Theatre Company
Music by Stephen Flaherty
Lyrics by Gertrude Stein
Adapted and Originally Directed By Frank Galati
21 January – 8 February
