Mark’s Score 3 / 5 Stars
The press release for this work is what whetted my appetite: ‘The House at Boundary Road Liverpool is a collaboratively devised play about Australia’s waves of post-war immigration. It’s a play about a house and its occupants through the years. Four acts and four playwrights telling the story of four families’. Any of us who has lived in a long established house or apartment cannot help but wonder who resided there before and what occurred in those rooms. Indeed the adage if only those walls could speak lingers longingly in the air during this entertainment. The house I grew up in was one like many post war dwellings – a new build in a developing suburb of Sydney. However as a young adult making my way in life the fascination was instantly strong in me, and maintains still, about the spirits that hover in the places we live.
The first of four playlets begins some 60-odd years ago. For seasoned playwright Thomas de Angelis The House at Boundary Road, Liverpool is most autobiographical as it is in fact the location of his immigrant grandparents first abode in Australia. His tale is perhaps the most familiar to some of us, but nevertheless holds our attention. Conversely the next story by Jordy Shea was new territory for me, though equally engrossing largely due to the excellent cast (Felino Dolloso, Mark Paguio and Jemwel Danao) portraying a Philippino family devoid of a maternal touch. It also featured Adam Di Martino in a superb cameo role. This is the play I would like to see the before and after drama played out in full length.
Stylistically the two-hander by Violette Ayad had much going for it though lacked sufficient intervention and revelation to sustain my interest. Its debut as part of this portmanteau piece can only mean that it can be developed. I imagine that Ms Arthur may have found this the most challenging to direct as the two sisters stand opposed throughout the piece. Bringing us up to the present time is the final playlet by Chika Ikogwe, brought to life by the extraordinary cast: Henrietta Amevor, Mike Ugo and the deliciously honey-comb voiced Nancy Denis. All three are mesmerising with a great sense of authenticity in their performances. Charming, highly amusing and touching it is a simple tale laced with a foreboding and suspense. Not a word needs changing or a nuance shifted, however more of Ms Denis any day please.
The House at Boundary Road, Liverpool is not your usual fare for The Old 505 Theatre and should therefore attract a new audience. It comes with a recommendation as it is a rare chance to see so many actors on that small stage. Kudos to 505 once again for providing opportunities for new and diverse Australian stories.
Mark G Nagle, Theatre Now
The House At Boundary Road Liverpool
Thomas de Angelis , Chika Ikogwe , Jordy Shea , Aanisa Vylet
5 – 16 Nov 2019
Tuesday – Saturday 8pm
Venue: The Old 505 Theatre
Theatre Company: Bontom
Duration: N/A
A new play by a group of very different writers, from very different immigrant backgrounds.
The House at Boundary Road Liverpool is a collaboratively devised play about Australia’s waves of post-war immigration. It’s a play about a house and its occupants through the years. Four acts and four playwrights telling the story of four families.
Directed by: CLEMENCE WILLIAMS
Ticket Prices
$45 Premium Adults* / $40 Adults / $30 Concession, Industry & Under 30 / ‘Pay what you want’ Previews
