JASPER JONES at Queensland Theatre

Jasper Jones is one of my favourite works of Australian literature. When I first read it, I couldn't put it down. I was waiting with Charlie for Jasper Jones to appear and struggling to keep it together like Eliza when she tells Charlie the story of what lead her sister to her death. Directed by Artistic Director Sam Strong, Queensland Theatre's production of Jasper Jones left me wanting more.

We all have our divergent interpretations of the characters and whilst this particular depiction of Charlie may have resounded with many, it didn't with me. In the book, Charlie is an insecure fourteen-year old who battles a plethora of fears, including his fear of bullies, of insects and most importantly, his fear of failure. Hence, as a reader, I felt betrayed that the playwright and director had portrayed Charlie's insecurities on stage in a comic, heightened manner, instead of showing them for what they truly are. I didn't understand why Charlie addressed the audience at various intervals throughout the performance, as not only was it unnecessary, but the book Charlie would not have invited them in, especially when he struggles to invite other people in his own story in. Additionally, whilst Nicholas Denton tried his best, he could not pass as a fourteen-year-old and at times there was a disconnect between him and his text. Maybe he didn't see Charlie as an aspiring comedian either.

However, Shaka Cook's portrayal of Jasper Jones was without fault; who highlighted his courage and bravery. He showed the audience that in the end, he was no different than Charlie. He was just as scared and insecure about both himself and his future. Rachel Gordon was a joy to watch on stage as Charlie's mum and Hoa Xuande was exactly like the Jeffrey I'd envisioned from the book.

Not only that, but Anna Cordingley's Helpmann-Award winning set was a sight to behold, with its revolving tin and weatherboard houses; a 1960's Australian landscape. Even now I wonder how they managed to create a real lake on stage. It truly was magical, just like Matt Scott's shifting lighting hues aid in the development of the Harper Lee-esque world and highlighted the moments of hope, such as the all colourful fireworks. Darrin Verhagen's sound design added a new vocabulary to the text, emphasizing the moments of tension, worry and fear.

Whilst the still ever-present dark patriarchal themes of Jasper Jones were explored, not all of the vivid characters that might have been a treat of the actors to bring to life, were a treat to the audience.

Jasper Jones
Playhouse - Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), Cultural Precinct, South Bank
Season: 28 July - 18 August 2018
Bookings:www.qpac.com.au

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