Reviewed by Janice Bailey

March 2015

I have been a long-time supporter of Community Theatre so I went along to Blackwood Players current production of Arthur Macrae’s Indoor Fireworks, prepared to enjoy myself –  I wasn’t disappointed. From the moment an audience member enters the Blackwood Memorial Hall they are made to feel welcome, thanks to the many wonderful behind the scenes people who make community theatre possible. The hall is set up in cabaret style and there is a bar available to patrons. 

Indoor Fireworks is a comedy of manners providing some wonderful lines delivered by well-defined characters. Director Damian White’s set design is well crafted and works within the limits of the high stage, characteristic of Memorial Halls. Costumes have been sourced well to fit the  play’s style. The programme designed by the Company’s Production Manager, James Barbary, is one of the best I have seen for any Adelaide production

Chris Barry is perfectly cast as Anita Pipprell, a divorced actor. The action takes place over a weekend in her country home where she invites journalist Miss Benbow,  played wonderfully by Heather Crawford, to write a piece on her life. The expected chaos ensues as the remaining characters make their appearance.

Emma Cook is excellent as Mrs Barry, although I personally thought it was a bit of a stretch to believe she was Anita’s mother. The whole cast worked extremely well together with notable performances from Jabez Retallick as Teddy and Deb Jefferies as Cissy, the overworked maid.

If you want a good laugh don’t miss this one – Friday and Saturday nights until 11 April.

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