THEATRE: EAST

BY BRIANNA LA RANCE

Steven Berkoff’s East transports the audience to 1960 in London’s East End district. Constructed from a collage of stories and monologues, it masterfully delivers a poetic and energetic performance about the story of wasted youth.

The production gives a new definition to sexuality and body animation. It’s packed with clever physicality and an interesting language construct that combines a lyrical Shakespearean rhythm with exaggerated vulgar cockney dialogue.

The cast all give honest and passionate performances; and the intimate setting allows for a good relationship between the audience and stage.

The set is simple but effective and the scene changes are quickly followed through with abstract piano and movement that gives the show a good musical feel.

The humour of the production is contagious, and the light and dark elements are soundly balanced as every character tells his or her life story to the audience, each being as interesting as the next.

East
Until November 22
The Seymore Centre, cnr Cleveland Street and City Road, Chippendale

Tickets: $22-$34, 9351 7940 or www.seymourcentre.com.au