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Review: DOGHOLE - Underground Theatre & theatrePUNKco


Written by Jake Goodall 

Ever been curious about the entanglement of fiction and reality? Dive into Underground Theatre & theatrePUNKco's latest venture, DOGHOLE, where the lines blur with captivating effect!

Written by Grace Wilson, DOGHOLE follows DOG or Camille Evans (don't call them that to their face, though.) They think all writers are bad, they think Tim Winton isn’t that great of an author, they think they have the next big hit under their fingers. It's called DOGHOLE – and it's their ticket out of the middle-of-nowhere town they grew up in. But DOG knows it’s a bit hard to write a book with no characters and no plot. DOG knows that normal writers don’t get haunted by the ghosts of dead authors who insist they’re doing this writing thing wrong. DOG knows that normal writers don’t find the world of fiction and reality crossing over until they’re not sure what’s a line in a book or an event in real life. DOG knows this, they really do. But that’s just another hurdle in their race to be the next big thing. Wilson's script delves deep into themes of self-worth and identity, emblematic of a contemporary trend blurring the boundaries of storytelling. It's a commendable addition to the Australian theatrical landscape.

Under el Waddingham's direction, the production largely excels, seamlessly guiding the narrative with well-orchestrated aesthetics and blocking. However, occasional lapses in naturalism and upstaging moments detract from an otherwise immersive experience. Yet, Waddingham's incorporation of 2000s aesthetics—from set design to soundtrack—imbues the performance with a nostalgic charm reminiscent of a bygone era.

Hannah Page's original compositions and sound design elevate the experience, infusing DOG's inner musings with poignant 2000s rock scores. Abigail Taylor's lighting design further accentuates the interplay between fiction and reality, crafting visually stunning tableaus that guide the audience through the narrative's twists and turns.

In the titular role, Zee Bartley delivers a standout performance, embodying DOG's complexity with nuance and depth. Opposite Bartley, Ava Ryan shines as Kat, effortlessly navigating the blurred lines between their fictional and real selves.

Bridie Middleton and Tom Anderson inject humor and vivacity into their portrayals of Tim Winton and Patrick White, respectively, eliciting laughter with their caricatured interpretations.

Jiordie Lobwein and Estella Hall impressively juggle multiple roles, seamlessly transitioning between characters and adding depth to the ensemble.

However, it's Mia Chisholm who steals the spotlight with their uproarious portrayal of 'Hazza' and the 'Lindsay's', captivating the audience with their infectious energy and audience interaction.

DOGHOLE by Underground Theatre and theatrePUNKco offers a delightful and thought-provoking theatrical experience, showcasing the vibrancy of contemporary storytelling. Don't miss the opportunity to catch this gem before it concludes on April 28th!

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