by Janelle (
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I like to participate in life rather than be a spectator. Music, dancing, theatre, travelling, food, cycling and walking are some of my passions. Writing is an enjoyable pastime that allows me to share my experiences.
Bachelor Gal recently had its world premiere at Sydney's
Seymour Centre. The intimate120 -seat
sound lounge was a great venue for this personal portrayal of a woman's life.
The poster says it all
plays the role of
Ellen with the perfect mix of strength and vulnerability as she brings the words of
Adam Szudrich and
Philip John to life. The audience observe
Ellen in her bedroom as she prepares for a date with a new man. For most of the sixty-five minute play
Leanne is dressed in a terry bathrobe and ugg boots. As she gulps her way through a bottle of alcohol, we are given insight into this lonely 40-year-old's life.
As would be expected from a bachelor gal or guy, there is coarse language, adult themes and sexual references. A red bustier and spandex pants are used to comic effect as
Ellen dresses on stage with the help of the horn player.
Bachelor Gal is full of self-deprecating humour, I loved the anecdote of a week-long, pre-date beauty regimen to achieve a state of "perfect imperfection". There were many great one-liners and some very funny sight gags. The eclectic music is provided by brilliant on-stage musicians and the original songs have lyrics that are full of pathos as well as humour.
Leanne Smith can really belt out a tune and she put some everything into her performance taking the audience on her heartbreaking emotional journey.
Theatre poster
is a beautifully written and very insightful piece of theatre. Although the words and themes are superficially about a 40-year-old woman who has lost her way, the play will speak to people of all ages and sexes. For me, it was ultimately a story of loss, missed opportunities and new beginnings with the moral that we all need to be kinder especially to ourselves.
