SMacNifiCo Presents

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Posted 2019-05-11 by May ⇒ follow

Fri 17 May 2019 - Sun 26 May 2019

The reason I so enjoy the annual Anywhere Theatre Festival, which I recently mentioned here is because it showcases so many different types of performance art at unconventional venues.

is a case in point with a madcap production set in the world of Commedia Dell'arte.

Commedia Dell'arte, you asked? This is an early form of theatre which originated in Italy dating back to the 16th Century and is characterised by masks. It quickly spread throughout Europe, creating a lasting influence on Shakespeare, opera, vaudeville, contemporary musical theatre, sit-coms, and improvised comedy.

Let's chat about more about currently playing at The Metropolitan at 106 Leichhardt Street, Spring Hill, for the duration of the Festival.

Firstly, as soon as you walk into the theatre space you are taken back to a different world, with a tone that is quickly set by the welcoming and funny performers. The Indriya Restaurant has been transformed, cabaret style, which means that the audience becomes part of the show (and you can enjoy a drink and light snack whilst being entertained. Got to love that!)

The story has old man Pantalone falling for the widow Senora del a Diva, a famed cabaret star. In order to win her affections, he agrees to finance a cabaret at his restaurant and employ her as the leading lady. An ex-lover of the Senora, Captain Lothario 'sin Cambio arrives to put a dampener on Pantalone's plans. Meanwhile, Pantalone's daughter, the winsome Isabella, defies her father to be with her love – the handsome and dashing Flavio. Lucky for them Columbina, Pantalone's employee, who has a heart of gold is on their side.

Think the Three Stooges, some pantomime, people singing badly, slapstick comedy, masks that aren't at all like the Venetian Carnivale, audience participation, and a whole lot of high energy fun!

Performances are scheduled as follows:
Friday 17th May
Friday 24th May
Sunday 26th May

All shows commences at 7:30pm sharp with tickets at $22.50 each available here.

The Metropolitan is an easy 500 metre walk uphill from Central Railway Station. We made a night of it by dining beforehand at The Metropolitan's Indi sidewalk Cafe and Bar which is open seven days a week as follows:

Breakfast
Mon – Fri: 6.00am – 2.00pm
Sat – Sun: 7.30am – 2.00pm
Lunch
7 days: 11.00am – 2.00pm
Dinner
7 days: 5.00pm – 9.00pm

Don't forget that the Anywhere Theatre Festival is all about new experiences and having a great time. SMacNifico Presents fits that bill.