Review: 7 Days In The Life Of Simon Labrosse
If you’ve ever had trouble finishing your sentences or dealing with longstanding family dramas, Simon Labrosee may be the man for you.
Théâtre Excentrique’s latest production, 7 Days In The Life Of Simon Labrosse, boasts the first Aussie performance of the French success, written by the award-winning Carole Fréchette. Set in Canada’s 1993 recession, Labrosse (played by Gerry Sont) and his quirky quest for employment manages to deliver laughs through its wacky yet oddly insightful look into what life’s meaning is all about. And in today’s time of the entrepreneur, Labrosse’s offerings of stunt man services, compliment giver-er and sentence finisher finds ironic relevance in 2016 Australia.
It may be the nooky set design and 99-Backstage’s intimate feel that initially draws in audiences (the venue’s bathroom doubles as stage right), but it’s the play’s eccentric characters that delivers its punch. Cassady Maddox and Steve McGragh round off the three person cast, their shifting roles enigmatic and polished. The script is enjoyable, laced in clever, easy-to-miss one liners that surprise and help lighten some of the play’s heavier messages.
A special mention must be made to Maddox, whose honeyed vocals lamented one of the play’s more reflective moments in a French melody, the entirety of her varied-character performance perfectly timed and enchantingly funny. Need to find the funny meaning in your life? 7 Days In The Life Of Simon Labrosse will sort you out. (CW)
Until May 29; Tues-Sat 7pm, Sun 5pm. Creative Space 99-Backstage, 99 Crown Street, Darlinghurst (access via Crown Lane). $25-$30. Tickets & info: theatrexcentrique.com or 0432 714 809
