REVIEW: Our House

If 1980’s ska and musical theatre seem like an unlikely fit, then prepare to be surprised. Our House, currently playing at The Genesian is a musical written by Tim Firth featuring the music of ’80’s British ska band, Madness – and it’s sensational.

Set in the outer London suburb of Camden during the Thatcher years, the story revolves around 16-year-old Joe Casey who lives with his mother and brothers in government housing. Joe’s father, a petty criminal who spent time in prison and died before Joe ever met him, shows up as a ghost narrator, trying to will Joe along the path of righteousness.

After Joe commits a minor crime to impress his girlfriend, he finds himself at the fork of two hypothetical future roads. And this is the one weakness of the show. The story splits into “sliding door” style parallel alternatives, but it’s hard to tell which is the better choice. He’s either the successful bad guy or unsuccessful good guy. The ending, of course, resolves that for us satisfactorily, even if it is a little contrived.

What is truly impressive is the production. The limited stage space is a challenge met with resourcefulness and ingenuity by the designer, lighting technician and choreographer. There is no sense of smallness with the visually stimulating, cleverly utilised set.

The pop/ska songs are surprisingly versatile, and given new treatments they dove-tail nicely with the story. While the characters are not unique creations, their combination and dialogue feels fresh and original. The two buffoonish brothers add slapstick, the best-girlfriends have some cracker lines and excellent comic timing. Reece, the low-level villain, has Dickensian charm.

Matt Clark in the lead role is outstanding and displays incredible stamina given he is in almost every scene. The entire cast is strong and have great synergy.

Even if you were never a Madness fan, you will find yourself mouthing along to the familiar lyrics. (RB)

Sep 3–Oct 8; Fri and Sat 8pm, Sun 4.30pm. Genesian Theatre, 420 Kent Street, Sydney. $30/$35. Tickets & info: www.genesiantheatre.com.au

BY RITA BRATOVICH