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Review: 37 - Queensland Theatre Company

Written by Jake Goodall

"Some will get what I'm trying to say, some won't. And the same could be said about the concept of reconciliation." - Nathan Maynard, Writer, 37

There is nothing better than walking into a State Theatre's building ready to watch a quality piece of art. Queensland Theatre's recent production of 37 is a stunning showcase in the behind-the-scenes of an Australian AFL club, highlighting the toxic masculinity, homophobia, and racism still running rampant within the sporting industry. 

The Cutting Cove Currawongs are the laughingstock of their small coastal town. They’ve spent so long at the bottom of the footy ladder, they’re basically rusted on. But some WD-40 arrives in the form of Jayma and Sonny — two Marngrook cousins named after the Aboriginal game that inspired AFL. It’s not long before the team realises that these two have what it takes to help them capture the flag for the first time in, well, forever… but turns out not everyone’s a fan. Set within the era of Adam Goodes’ war cry — and named after the number he immortalised — 37 is a loud, brash match between top dogs and underdogs that packs some serious bite.

Directed by Isaac Drandic, 37 was a theatrical masterpiece. Drandic created a fantastic story showcasing First Nations culture at the forefront. Occasionally performers were blocked with backs to the audience muffling their lines however this did not distract from the production. Drandic created some stunning tableaus of ALF with lifts, jumps and slides! Choreography by Isaac Drandic and Waangenga Blanco was calculated and intense, the was the cast performed dance was something truly special. 

Set & Costume Design by Dale Ferguson was simple yet effective, the set utilised plain open space with benches and footy bags across the back. The use of a large roller-style door added to the footy club aesthetic of the production. Lighting by Ben Hughes was evocative, using simple lighting to illuminating day and night, Sound and Composition by James Henry was beautiful. The soundtrack Henry created was beautiful and really helped to move the production and story along. 

The true strength of this production lies within the professional ensemble of the show. All 10 men involved in this show are extremely talented and it is clear they have all developed their characters. This talented troupe included Samuel Buckley as Apples, Costa D'Angelo as Ant, Thomas Larkin as GJ, Eddie Orton as Woodsy, Ben O'Toole as Joe and Anthony Standish as Dazza.

Syd Brisbane as The General was hard-hitting and a perfect rendition of an Australian Footy Coach. Brisbane provided us with the questionable father-figure character that we loved to hate. Mitchell Brotz as Gorby brought was the comedic relief in the production, Brotz created a try-hard character that wanted to say the right things but just couldn't. Finally, out star leads, Ngali Shaw as Jayma and Tibian Wyles as Sonny. These stunning performers took us on a journey through the stories, struggles and triumphs of First Nations people in modern-day Australia. ' 37 is about the potential we have to make this country - we now call Australia - a place where everyone feels they can belong. It's about opportunities and missed opportunities. It's about hope and working together to create a story we can all be proud of.' - Isaac Drandic, Director, 37.

Overall, 37 is a perfect piece of theatre that absolutely deserves five stars and full houses! Don't miss this stunning First Nation's story in the heart of Brisbane City, 37 performs until May 4 at the Billie Brown Theatre. BOOK NOW!

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