John Shand Posts

May 27, 2025 / Theatre Reviews - Archive

Hayes Theatre, May 14 7/10 When, during the first half, Pepa, the protagonist, accidentally set fire to her bed (as in Pedro Almodovar’s film on which this is based), the fire blazed up so dramatically that I glanced at the emergency exits. Pepa duly put it out, but I doubt…

May 22, 2025 / Concert Reviews - Archive

The Soda Factory, May 13 8/10 Imagine if those trying to sell Newcastle as a tourist destination had sent silverchair overseas, or those selling Sydney sent Midnight Oil, or those selling Melbourne used Hiatus Kaiyote right now. That would be much too radical when we have beaches, reefs, a rock…

May 19, 2025 / Theatre Reviews - Archive

Wharf 1 Theatre, May 9 8/10 The greatest roles allow for endless revelations. The corollary is that no Winnie in Happy Days will ever be perfect, any more than any Hamlet will be. The role’s scope is too vast. Despite playwright Samuel Beckett’s best efforts to corral actors into playing…