For those who love the book and Kubrick’s film, you will not be disappointed by Brisbane Arts Theatre’s adaptation of Anthony Burgess’ A Clockwork Orange (directed by Bronwyn Nayler and Greg Scurr).
Burgess’ story warns of a dystopic London ruled by unruly teens and the acting and tone of the performance was the perfect balance of confronting and comical. Alex (Kenji Shimada) and his droogs Pete (Peter Irankunda), Georgie (William Whitfield), and Dim (Nathan French) were accompanied by a brilliant cast of devotchkas and malchicks, some of the highlights being the angry drunken priest (Liam Donnelly) and the mad scientist (Lisa Hickey).
How could I not have known that this was a musical adaptation! However, I was not disappointed! The music (directed by Faron Swingler) was well performed and suited the dark tones of play well. With the addition of a smoky background and a simple set of a large cog, the atmosphere and tone of A Clockwork Orange was set the moment we walked through the doors (set design by Kiel J.T. Gailer and lighting design by Matthew Breen).
The on-stage fight scenes (directed by Justin Palazzo-Orr) were incredibly well choreographed (by Sarah McNally) and performed. Sitting in the second row, the only thing I was worried about was getting hit by a flying projectile swung a little too passionately! Fortunately, nothing of the sort happened and I commend the actors for the convincing and professional stunts!
Overall, the production is not for the faint of heart as it contains several graphic and violent scenes; however, this is true to the original story and is not unwarranted as it serves to justify the themes of the play: free will and humanity.
I would highly recommend this well-acted and enigmatic performance of A Clockwork Orange – just make sure you have a strong stomach!
By Jasmine Regan Feldman