Man in Chair

Melbourne Opera: Das Rheingold review

By Simon Parris on February 4, 2021 • ( 8 Comments )

Grandly conceived and splendidly realised, Das Rheingold sees Melbourne Opera scale new heights of grandeur.

Frank Van Straten: Hanky-Panky book review

By Simon Parris on February 3, 2021 • ( 2 Comments )

In the new book Hanky-Panky, masterly arts historian Frank Van Straten shines the spotlight on prolific arts impresario Ernest C. Rolls, whose extravagant stage productions entertained Australia in the 1920s and 1930s.

Come From Away review [Melbourne 2021]

By Simon Parris on January 28, 2021 • ( 3 Comments )

The joy of finally returning to live theatre in Melbourne is exponentially magnified by the heart lifting humanity of the first musical to reopen, Come From Away.

David McAllister: Soar book review

By Simon Parris on October 1, 2020 • ( 1 Comment )

Bright and brisk, David McAllister’s autobiography Soar: A Life Freed by Dance nimbly chronicles the sacrifices, setbacks and successes of a life devoted to dance. Supportively co-authored by journalist Amanda Dunn, Soar […]

Who’s Your Baghdaddy review

By Simon Parris on June 25, 2020 • ( 1 Comment )

A trailblazing experiment to be treasured, supported and admired, the live online season of Who’s Your Baghdaddy (or How I Started the Iraq War) is an imaginative blend of musical theatre prowess, […]

The Australian Ballet: Volt review

By Simon Parris on March 14, 2020 • ( 3 Comments )

The Australian Ballet returns the mixed contemporary program to the stage, showcasing the depth of talent in the company with Volt. Bookended by an almost too well-matched pair of Wayne McGregor works, […]

Melbourne Theatre Company: Emerald City review

By Simon Parris on March 12, 2020 • ( Leave a comment )

The noble intention of Melbourne Theatre Company’s celebration of 50 years of David Williamson plays misfires with a bland revival of 1987 hit Emerald City, a play that proves more tepid talkfest […]