Calling a show Allstars when you are unknowns in Perth with big ambitions is pretty audacious and gutsy. It is also pretty funny.
The three members of Just Friends Theatre Company, whose names are almost on the lips of everyone, have a driving ambition to be famous. Or rich. Preferably both.
The cast of Hannah Davidson, Rebecca Fingher and Sian Murphy poke a whole lot of fun at our lust for fame, whether talent actually plays a genuine part and if it will actually make our lives better. These are well worn ideas, but the trio give it a fresh (and sharp) eye, a little jooshing.
Google helpfully tells them that the most famous person in the world right now is former wrestler turned movie star Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson. Who knew?
They embark on various ploys to gain fame including the idea of a sex tape, fake stories planted in the news to create a buzz and handing their resume’s out to the audience.
The well-worn path of Perthites leaving the west is also touched on in a really fun and original way. The final word Perth has is ‘you’ll be back… the rents over there are really expensive’ is possibly a phrase (and fear) heard by many as they head east chasing acting work.
They are spurned on in their quest by, what I assume is a reference to Dr Who’s Lady Cassandra O’Brien, who had 778 plastic surgeries until she was nothing but a piece of skin stretched onto a frame with mouths and eyes. Her skin had to be constantly moisturised. Now that is really going to frightening extremes.
The comedy is broad, there are some great cultural references, the timing between Hannah, Rebecca and Sian is lovely and their characters were clearly identified.
They deserve to be famous. Or a big audience.