Review: SENIOR MOMENTS Shares The Frustrations And Stereotypes Of The More Mature

Thursday 26th May 2016, 8pm, Glen Street Theatre, Belrose

A comedy revue filled with music and memories, SENIOR MOMENTS caters to the aging population. Producer/writers Angus Fitzsimons and Kevin Brumpton have bought together 5 mature stars of television and stage, supported by two younger performers and veteran Musical Director Geoff Harvey to provide a night of nostalgia as they give voice to the reminiscences, gripes and challenges of the older generation.

Commencing with an Opening Checklist for the audience, John Derum, Penny Cook and Russell Newman set the tone of tightly scripted comedy but with somewhat stilted delivery, standard for comedy revues. Derum, Cook and Newman are joined by Benita Collings and Lex Marinos to round out the "Seniors" and supported by younger Christian Barratt-Hill and Nicola Parry.

The 90 minute show is a blend of gripes about the modern world, younger generations and growing old; digs at sterotypes, bad habits and trying to keep up; and memories of music, popular culture and simpler times. A number of songs including the obligatory Gilbert and Sullivan number, sea shanty and bush ballad have been adapted with clever new lyrics and popular television shows have been modified for the aging audience. The ensemble roll through a series of recognisable characterisations, from the old man with the young girlfriend; ungrateful children with an ailing father; and retiree that refuses to slow down, favouring trying to keep up with the next generations. They also provide the chorus for musical numbers and members of television game shows. The only real reference to the performers most recognisable roles comes in the form of Old School hosted by Benita Collings as "Miss Jane".

Whilst all 7 performers are still currently active actors, each with significant performing experience, the writing does lean towards forcing each to deliver a somewhat wooden performance. The exception is Penny Cook's role in The Name Game which allows her to convey the exasperation of a mother facing an unpronounceable and absurd grandchild's name. Collings reconnects the audience with memories of children's television programs, easily slipping back into her Play School presenter persona.

Whilst the work is clearly aimed at the average Glen Street Theatre patron, a middle to older age, white anglo saxon North Shore and Eastern Suburbs individual of middle to higher socioeconomic backgrounds, it was interesting to note the number of times the writers have chosen to pick holes on the stereotypical behaviour of "Senior citizens" rather than the advertised mockery of younger generations. Whilst most of the works are well crafted and positively received, there was a noticeable silence, potentially from lack of recognition, for the references to Adelaide and awkward laughs at references to homophobia.

SENIOR MOMENTS is a nice night out for those in the target demographic. For younger generations wanting to treat relatives for a night out, a lot of the references are still understood by younger generations so they will still enjoy the night, and seeing actors from their childhood is also a nice treat.

SENIOR MOMENTS
26 - 29 May 2016

Glen Street Theatre, Belrose

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