The University of Canterbury's Musical Society spring season of The Threepenny Opera is now performing, with last night's opening a theatrical success.
As an unusual choice of show, The Threepenny Opera deserves a proper introduction.
The Threepenny Opera is one of Bertolt Brecht's better known dramatic works. Brecht is known for refining the theatrical practice of "epic theatre" and explored the use of the theatre as a political and social forum. One of the hallmarks of epic theatre is the alienisation of the audience from the characters on stage and the emphasis of a meta-theatre in which the play is self-aware and capable of referring to itself as a piece of fiction.
The Threepenny Opera is one of Bertolt Brecht's better known dramatic works. Brecht is known for refining the theatrical practice of "epic theatre" and explored the use of the theatre as a political and social forum. One of the hallmarks of epic theatre is the alienisation of the audience from the characters on stage and the emphasis of a meta-theatre in which the play is self-aware and capable of referring to itself as a piece of fiction.
This production successfully captures that self-referentiality. While for the uninitiated, the obvious make-up, bright lights, and direct-to-audience addresses may take some getting to used to, it is this conversational and honest atmosphere between the players and the audience that makes this show such a success.
Set in an historically questionable Victorian London, The Threepenny Opera's story is that of Macheath, London's most notorious criminal, and his marriage to Polly Peachum, daughter of the beggar king. Mr Peachum is outraged at the secret nuptials and swears to find Mack and hand him over to the police to be hanged: not such an easy feat as the Chief of Police and Mack are old army buddies. The final act takes place as dawn rises on the day of Queen Victoria's coronation - the people of London want nothing more than a public execution to add to the celebrations.
Since the Ngaio Marsh Theatre has been out of action since February's earthquake, this is a new venue for Musoc. The Drama Workshop is an open space without the usual orchestra pit and proscenium arch, ideal for such a piece as Threepenny Opera. That the actors are in direct eye line with the audience and the band adds to the meta-theatre experience; we often talk about monologues and asides from actors as "breaking the fourth wall" - in this production there simply isn't a fourth wall to break.
The whole cast gives a strong performance, particular highlights being the beautifully and dynamically performed Pirate Jenny, sung by Rachael Norcross as Polly Peachum, and a delightful jealousy scene between Polly and Lucy Brown, competitors for Mack's affection.
Special mentions need to be given to several stand-out performances. Jason Pemberton plays a fantastically selfish and lawless Mack the Knife with his acclaimed strong vocals and confident interpretation of the character. Lance McBride produces an equally strong performance as Mr Peachum, the Beggar King, and is to be particularly commended for his naturally conversational monologues and asides which are key in the first few scenes in introducing the feel and flavour of the production. Congratulations also need to be given to Maria Webb's quirky representation of the drunk, scolding wife and mother, Mrs Peachum.
It's clear just how much thought and preparation has gone into the presentation of this show by the associated memorabilia. The elegantly designed programs (credit due to Will Duignan at High Town Studio) open out to a full-size Wanted poster for Macheath; intermission refreshments include specially designed sweets bearing the show's knife logo and on leaving the theatre, the audience is treated to a small token to remember the show by. It is small touches like these that show just how much work the creative and production teams have put into ensuring the show is an enjoyable experience.
This show is not your usual Rodgers and Hammerstein fare, and provides a refreshing change in Christchurch's theatre line-up. This is a must-see for anybody who considers himself a true thespian, and for anyone looking for a great night's entertainment that has something extra to offer.
The Threepenny Opera runs from the 13th - 24th September, in Drama Workshop 1 of the Jack Mann Auditorium on Solway Ave. Tickets are available through the Court Theatre (click here). Performances start at 7pm. Tickets are $12 unwaged, $15 waged.
Director: Erin Harrington, with assistance from Sam Creed
Musical Director: Cameron Stewart, with assistance from Daniel Leadbeater
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