Piccolo Tales

As a Kings Cross institution, the Piccolo Bar and its 81-year-old proprietor, Vittorio, have witnessed several dramatic changes and attracted many colourful customers over the years. Site-specific play Piccolo Tales returns after a critically acclaimed, sell-out 4-month season last year.

Written and performed by Vashti Hughes, the play pays homage to Vittorio and his bar, celebrating each era with a bright and exciting character.

“For each decade I’ve tried to choose a character that is from, and represents [that] decade,” explained Hughes. “In the ‘70s there’s a Les Girls girl, in the ‘80s there’s a crazy junkie, and in the ‘90s a pill popping DJ…after 2000 we have a pram pushing yuppie mummy and a guy on grinder.”

The intimate setting inserts the audience members into the action, creating somewhat of a journey through time, similar to opening a time capsule and exploring what’s inside.

“I also play [Vittorio], so sitting there with [him]…is really special…it’s quite interesting to watch his responses to it all as well,” said Hughes.

On top of the usual seating structure (ten audience members inside the bar, and ten outside on the sidewalk), this year ten audience members will be given the opportunity to sit in the park across the street to witness the action from a new perspective.

“It’ll be like silent disco style [with] headphones,” Hughes explained.

Piccolo Tales is a celebration of the iconic Kings Cross, enabling audience members to reminisce and share their own histories with the City. (NB)

Feb 16–Mar 31. Piccolo Bar, 6 Roselyn Street, Potts Point. $20-$40. Tickets & info: piccolotales.eventbrite.com.au

BY NYSSA BOOTH