The long awaited premiere of Mother and Son at The Comedy Theatre in Melbourne was well worth the wait. It’s difficult to believe it's been 30 years since the hit Australian sitcom starring Ruth Cracknell and Gary McDonald entered our homes and hearts on the small screen.
Mother and Son became one of Australia’s most successful all-time television comedies, airing in over 50 countries worldwide. Geoffrey Atherden developed and wrote the original series, and he quite cleverly brought the new stage show into the 21st century with the use of mobile phones, sexting, video chat, and overseas call-centres.
Noeline Brown played the witty yet cunning Maggie Beare and was sensational right from the onset. Given that Brown was recovering from a broken femur, she managed to manoeuvre (hobble) around the set, adding weight to the old adage “Break a Leg”.
Maggie manipulates and vehemently attempts to sabotage her son Arthur Beare’s ( Darren Gilshenan) travel plans with new girlfriend Anita (Kellie Rode). Gilshenan's portrayal of Arthur was a little lacklustre in the first act, yet he found his rhythm by the second act, making the play more enjoyable.
Shane Jacobson and Nicki Wendt were hysterical as Maggie’s favourite son, Robert, and snobby daughter-in-law Liz. Jacobson and Wendt often dominated the scenes and effortlessly delivered their lines with confidence and vivacity.
There were a few lulls along the way and the pace seemed to wane due to stunted dialogue. Hopefully these minor pitfalls will be ironed out as the season progresses.
A special mention goes out to set designer Shaun Gurton. No elaborate sets were required for Mother and Son, however Gurton skilfully created a warm and cosy environment for our loveable, dysfunctional family to call home.
Overall, an outstanding and hilarious show and a must-see for all Mother and Son fans.
For more information visit: http://www.motherandsononstage.com.au