Well-organised Pandemonium

Issue 

Biting Pavlov
By Philip Dean
Directed by David Peachey and Ken Stock
Pandemonium Theatre Productions
Warren Street Theatre, Brisbane
Reviewed by Lynda Hansen

This production, performed in a beautiful old church in Spring Hill by amateur theatre group Pandemonium Productions, has the calibre of direction and acting that warms my appreciation of local theatre. Philip Dean, who also penned Lonesome Cowgirls, has written a sharp, witty and thought-provoking piece.

Biting Pavlov is loosely based on Emile Zola's Therese Racquin, a realist novel that scandalised critics in the 18th century. Today the story-line would raise interest, not eyebrows.

Young Davina (Emma Hynes) lives a joyless life badgered by "mother" (Maree Hehmet), who gives new meaning to being a penny-pinching, god-fearing Christian. "Mother" victimises Davina while doting on sickly Tristram (Stephan Cooper-Fox), to whom Davina is married and forced to play nursemaid. Davina is trapped in a stifling and mundane life. There seems no way out until Harry (Fraser Corfield) appears on the scene.

Harry, a childhood friend and mentor of Tristram, is a good-humoured layabout who captures Davina's heart. They begin an energetic illicit affair. Realising that their only solution is to separate Tristram from his mortal coil, the lovers are consumed by guilt and mistrust. They turn against each other in a final scene that grips the audience to the last moment.

The cat (Janelle Manning) plays the all-seeing conscience of the characters. She speaks to the audience in cynical but realistic terms about the ugly human condition that can arise in desperate times.

Pandemonium's production is a refreshing, multi-layered examination of personal responsibility and its implications.

If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.