“This is a somewhat problematic play, beginning as a witty polemic with clearly drawn (if somewhat stereotypical characters) but can easily devolve in the second half into a poor-man’s Richard III. “
Kate Stratford
3 stars
Venue: Woodbin Theatre
Geelong
Dates : 17th April to 2nd May 2026
Community theatre has often been derided as “am-dram” – but it does more than put on plays – it brings people together, creates a space for expression, and fosters a sense of belonging. It offers opportunities for learning, growth, and development while supporting mental well-being and strengthening the fabric of the local community. For many, community theatre is a lifeline – a place where creativity, collaboration, and community spirit meet. It serves as a reminder that the arts are not just the domain of professionals in large theatres but something that belongs to everyone. It provides an accessible and welcoming space where people can come together, share stories, and celebrate the richness of human experience in a most affordable way.
Geelong Repertory Theatre has been running since 1932 and is such a regional company. Their latest offering is Hannie Rayson’s political drama Two Brothers. The eponymous title refers to a pair of high-profile siblings who find themselves on different sides of the political fence. James ‘Eggs’ Benedict is a pillar of the right and the Minister of Homse Security, a savvy politician who has his eye on the top job. He is intent on “stopping the boats”. His brother, Tom is a left wing community lawyer and CEO of a prominent charity organisation. He represents an Iraqi survivor of a boat on Christmas Day. The two brothers and their families are thrown into conflict, and the question is asked – is blood thicker than politics?
This is a somewhat problematic play, beginning as a witty polemic with clearly drawn (if somewhat stereotypical characters) but can easily devolve in the second half into a poor-man’s Richard III. It falls to all to not allow this to happen. Filmic in structure, it challenges a director to maintain the energy and pace as it zips from place to place, character to character in a series of very brief vignettes. Ben Crowley has relied on the very old tradition of scenic blackouts as transitions and it is an unfortunate choice. This technique interrupts the flow and tension of a play and in this case, ultimately makes the performance about 15 minutes longer than needs be. Perhaps a more metaphorical set would have enabled more creative transitions.
The performances are sincere from the entire cast. They are to be commended for their complete commitment to this over two hour production. As James “Eggs” Benedict Tim Atkin leans into the comic aspect of the role and does tend to deliver some lines with a sort of boom-tish flourish but has the physical presence needed. His social-democrat brother Tom, played by Steven Georgiadis is suitably resigned to the futility of going up against a corrupt system but it is the performance of Thomas Vlamis as the refugee Hazem which is the most believable and certainly the most sympathetic.
Regional community theatres are the backbone of the Performing Arts. What I love most about them is their complete and utter acceptance of everyone upon one condition only – to bring passion and a preparedness to work. Which is the ground zero for all talent.
Kate Stratford, Theatre Now
