Michael McStay’s Leopardskin. Photo by Clare Hawley.
In this high-energy comedy a couple of love-struck con artists, who may or may not be blind, have conceived a plan to deprive an eccentric Italian billionaire of his priceless antique (miniature) clock. Cue obstacles. Insatiable politicians on the rise, eagle (one) eyed under cover cops, charitable figures who may not be all that they seem; this show deploys rapid-fire amusing scenarios, all wrapped snugly in leopardskin garb.
In writer Michael McStay’s universe the jokes fly thick and fast, with much hilarity being derived from fleeting looks of disappointment from supporting characters as they are swept aside by the superior importance of the leads; their small, detailed worlds are crushed as the denouement gallops ever closer.
This production features wonderful direction from Samantha Young, who mines every moment for comedy and emotional depth. She kept the energy so high that we didn’t have a moment to glance backwards and reflect on what we had seen: the only option was to sit back and enjoy the ride. This is a production by JackRabbit Theatre, who are currently resident at the Kings Cross Theatre.
The performances are terrific: Travis Jeffery is wonderful in the dual role of Dick Tims / Giuseppe Monterverdi. While deploying detailed physical and accent work, he demonstrates why he enjoyed success in the movie business straight out of drama school: ‘O, this lady. She wants to kiss my ring’. He kept the audience laughing and gasping for air.
Michael McStay’s Leopardskin. Photo by Clare Hawley.
Zoe Jensen as Val and Guy O’Grady as Luka formed the comic duo at the core of the piece: their on again off again relationship provided many of the night’s heartfelt moments. Ella Watson-Russell as Olive Darling was a towering presence as she sought to express her will-to-power over the mercurial cast. Nick Gell demonstrated skillful physical work as he disappeared from one role into another. Emma Kew generated great sympathy for the plight of her marginalised characters. Playful sound design from Ben Pierpoint provided many laughs, and helped to realise Young’s fast paced and dynamic vision.
If you are seeking a night full of good fun, combined with some poignant (quasi-poetic) reflections on life, then this is the show for you.
4 stars ★★★★
Leopardskin
By Michael McStay
Produced by JackRabbit Theatre
Directed by Samantha Young
Stage Managed by Michaela Savina
Cast: Guy O’Grady, Zoe Jensen, Emma Kew, Ella Watson-Russel and Travis Jefferey
26 March – 6 April
KXT, Kings Cross Theatre, Sydney
