Truth, Beauty And A Picture Of You

Truth, Beauty And A Picture Of You
Image: Photo: Noni Carroll

Truth, Beauty And A Picture Of You is a production based on an idea by award-winning playwright Alex Broun. It features music and lyrics by The Whitlams founding member Tim Freedman and takes inspiration from the backstory of the iconic Australian band.

Ian Stenlake (Oklahoma!), Scott Irwin (Beauty and The Beast) and Toby Francis (Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson) lead a small cast and band. It’s difficult to pick a standout from these three powerhouses of the stage – they go from strength to strength and deliver flawless performances.

Sadly there are multiple plots fighting each other for space on an intimate stage that is already crowded with big sets and even bigger songs. This story is hard enough to condense without splitting the focus and giving equal weight to competing storylines. There is unfortunately little time to explore one or the other adequately and the action rushes to an ending that feels forced.

With set pieces that look like they were lifted from The Sandringham in ‘90s Newtown, it evokes the era perfectly with worn barstools and an old poker machine. Freedman’s beautiful songs and sublime lyrics create a welcome nostalgia, the audience needn’t be fans to appreciate the stunning score.

There is room for this production to grow and indeed it should, because with the talent involved and the foundation of Freedman’s music, a roaring success is guaranteed. (LL)

Until Jun 1, Hayes Theatre Co, 19 Greenknowe Ave, Potts Point, $20-48, (02) 8065 7337, hayestheatre.com.au

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