Hi Ho – Snow White and some Giant Dwarves are back. Conjuring up some serious laughter at the Ensemble Theatre in their new revue, THE YEAR IN TATTERS.
How wonderful to have this competent, talented team lined up for this and next year 2027, to provide an excellent current and undercurrent affairs revue, especially as we saw the sad demise of the annual Wharf Revue last year.
Writing credits for the revue go to Andrew Hansen, Mark Humphries, Chris Taylor and Evan Williams.
Under the directorial prowess of Mark Kilmurry, this formidable comedy troupe includes; musician extraordinaire and Chaser member Andrew Hansen, wonderful singer and actress Christie Whelan Browne, brilliant writer, radio presenter and Chaser member Chris Taylor, and the sharp and witty writer, radio and TV presenter Mark Humphries.
This show is 80 minutes of pure joy, fast and furious, from the opening homage to playwright David Williamson, the raunchy opening song THE YEAR IN TATTERS to the hilarious pathos and tragedy of “Alboholics Anonymous”.
What follows is a smorgasbord of 26 sketches, screen images and songs. Andrew Hansen moves between keyboards and guitar with great ease. His rendition of ‘Nostalgia Song’ is a timely lament for baby boomers longing for the ‘good ol’days’.
The North Sydney pool features with several screen updates accompanied by an apologetic voice over from North Sydney Council who postpone events and openings.
Topics in the firing line include: QR restaurant codes. A comedy of errors where the restaurant customers cannot find the menu. Adelaide Writers’ Week, Albo, Pauline & One Nation, the Nationals (‘Coalition Wilderness’), the Libs, the Brits and many more.
THE YEAR IN TATTERS is a joyous ride you mustn’t miss.
The costumes by designer Veronique Benett enhance the humour. The outfit changes are well handled – with the help of costume supervisor Renata Beslik and the superhuman stage crew.
Great lighting by Matt Cox, as is the sound design by Khalid Sarkar, and video design by Cameron Smith.
THE YEAR IN TATTERS is definitely worth a visit. Laughter and good music is just what the doctor ordered. Good for the soul. It plays until October 24th, 2026, at the Ensemble Theatre, Kirribill
