BWW Reviews: THE WHARF REVUE: OPEN FOR BUSINESS, a hilarious political satire with polish and precision.

Friday 24th October 2014, Wharf 1 Theatre, Pier 4, Hickson Road, Walsh Bay NSW

THE WHARF REVUE: OPEN FOR BUSINESS is a fast paced, cleverly scripted and superbly delivered political satire where all the players in the current political landscape are fair game, and even a few old names are included. In its 15th year, the writers and creators, Jonathan Biggins, Drew Forsythe and Phillip Scott have drawn the analogy that politics is like a game, and in this case, MONOPOLY, to create the promotional material, set and opening number.

As the audience enters they are greeted by an oversized game board with the usual real estate traded out for political hot topics, steps to a raised stage, a baby grand piano and a large screen backdrop. The performance utilises the screen for some recorded numbers and provides scenery backdrop for others and along with Matthew Marshall's lighting design, is able to create different moods and locations. The split level allows for a variety of entrances and the mobile stairs creates different locations.

Biggins and Scott are joined by Amanda Bishop and Douglas Hansell create the recognisable characters as they use song, dance, and spoken word poetry to highlight the political hot topics and some cultural quirks with up to the minute detail. Some melodies are recognisable such as a version of HAIRSPRAY's Nicest Kids in Town which fits nicely with the Senator for South Australia's traditional values and others are completely new compositions. A variety of musical styles are used along with references to popular culture through "advertisements" projected on the screen and reimagining of recognisable TV shows.

With both the singing and spoken word, all the performers ensure that the words, which are incredibly clever, are not lost, maintaining clarity even when mimicking voices. Biggins' monologue as a former PM, dripping with insults is delivered perfectly and Hansell's prayer as the Member for Sturt is hilarious in its narcissistic whininess. Bishop's vocal range is notable, moving from a crisp soprano in a quick paced solo, a sultry vamp, a recognisable nasal, and a clear operatic. Scott's ragtime piano brings a feel of vaudeville to the performance along with Biggins and Bishop's tap number. Other numbers are accompanied by recorded musical tracks.

THE WHARF REVUE: OPEN FOR BUSINESS is a well-crafted blend of theatrical genres that covers a range of topics with the right level of wit and restraint and would appeal to people that follow politics but it doesn't draw on references that are too obscure so even those that aren't as up to speed on the fine details can follow along and enjoy the show.

21st October 2014 - 20 December 2014

THE WHARF REVUE: OPEN FOR BUSINESS

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