Picnic at Hanging Rock at Wakefield Village Hall
Produced by Nelson Theatre Collective in association with Wakefield Country Players
Reviewed by Cheryl Rozga
Picnic at Hanging Rock, written by Tom Wright and adapted from the 1967 novel by Joan Lindsay, is both a haunting and an intriguing play.
From the start, the audience’s attention is captured by the cast, who between them depict the story of private boarding school students in Victoria and the events set around a Valentine’s Day picnic at Hanging Rock.
Giving us a glimpse of Australian life in the early 1900s while challenging us to consider conformity and social norms, the play is written in the form of a true story - ‘is it fact or fiction?’ one wonders.
The skill of director Hugh Neill and the talent, evidently good theatre work habits, and commitment to the roles of the young actors is clearly demonstrated with the cast convincingly and skillfully playing a total of 13 characters between them.
Their ability to adapt to their contrasting roles while depicting a wide range of emotions makes for some very authentic storytelling. Notably, Emily Rodley’s believable portrayal of teacher Mrs Appleyard gives us a glimpse into ‘the old school’ way of things - especially in relation to her harsh treatment of orphan Sarah, convincingly played by Holly Cameron.
Also worthy of a mention is Rhiannon Sinclair’s portrayal of Michael, especially when he returns to the rock and becomes disorientated.
Seren Holden’s ability to move effortlessly and convincingly between narrating and acting the roles of Nikki and Irma is impressive, as is Emilia Thorn’s ability to switch between French accented Mademoiselle and Aussie Albert.
A light-hearted play this is not. Other than the occasional chuckle from the audience in reaction to lines such as ‘what use is spelling and algebra in Australia’ for the most part the audience themselves appeared to be spellbound by this quite mesmerising piece of theatre.
If you appreciate intrigue, suspense, and thought-provoking material, then this play is for you.
Picnic at Hanging Rock is showing at Wakefield Village Hall on 23, 28, 30 September, and 1 October. Tickets are available at bookcountryplayers@gmail.com or phone on 5418869.
