If you are in the mood to see some musical theatre EVERY SINGLE SATURDAY is a good choice. This is an opportunity to support local, Australian theatre which has energetic dancing, some catchy tunes and a feel good storyline.
EVERY SINGLE SATURDAY, written by Joanna Weinberg and directed by Lisa Freshwater, is about the relationships of four parents found on the sideline of a junior soccer team, the Magpies. Marco (Christopher Horsey) is the coach and former junior star who never made it in the big time, Sandy (Maria de Marco) is the team’s fitness trainer who has a struggling fitness training business. Liz (Katrina Retallick) is the glamorous & cultured single mum who clashes with the down to earth Sandy. Neil (Scott Irwin) is an international conductor who has only recently become acquainted with his ten year old son. Neil clashes with Marco as he is more focused on his music than spending precious time with his son.
As a counterpoint to these clashes alliances form. Marco & Sandy bond over common interests and perform the “Tango of Marital Disappointment”. Liz & Neil’s friendship is based on their interest in classical music.
The Magpie theme is extended by a talking magpie that links the scenes together with cute comments about the mood and the weather. He functions as a miniature black and white Greek chorus.
In good musical tradition lots of aspects of the play get twisted and turned around. Neil has no interest in sport but his son is naturally brilliant at football and has no interest in his father’s passion. The reverse happens with Carlo, who is passionate about football and has a son who wants to dance.
The audience frequently laughed at the funny lines scattered through the play and the Space Invaders’ dance is a hysterical highlight.
The production has a great look. Martin Kinnane’s lighting design is striking and Justin Nardella’s set has us in a familiar sideline setting.
This kind of musical theatre is not for everyone Some people will find this production cloying and the humour crass. It confirms stereotypes rather than challenges them. This is not high brow theatre and firmly sits within the entertainment sphere.
EVERY SINGLE SATURDAY opened at the Glen Street Theatre, Belrose on Thursday 16th February and runs until Sunday 26th February and then will play seasons at the Theatre Royal and Parramatta Riverside theatres.
© Mark Pigott
17th February, 2012