Light-hearted politics squashed in a small regional town, McGuffin Park is a playful take 

on small town quirks and regional government. Performed at Ensemble Theatre, in Kirribilli with a picturesque view over the water, this play transports Sydney audiences to a fun political journey sprinkled with unmistakable Aussie humour and flair. 

 

When the Major drops out only a week before the midterm election, tension erupts between two high school friends, Fiona and Jack, who are also councillors as they battle for the role of Major. With town secrets waiting to be exposed and friendships on the line, the plot is simple yet cleverly crafted to grab our interest. 

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​Image by Prudence Upton

 

As a compelling ensemble piece, we follow a vibrant and diverse range of eight characters with just five actors, Eloise Snape (Fiona), Shan-Ree Tan (Jack), Thomas Campbell, Jamie Oxenbould and Lizzie Schebesta. Many of these talented actors embody the multiple characters well and lead rich portrayals of each. The characterisation choices were developed in an impressive way that anchored us throughout. 

 

There was distinct clarity in each different character, where the actors switched roles with effective use of signposting with individual costume items. This impactful technique particularly suited the script and built a strong sense of community within the world. I commend the ensemble as a whole, and direction from Mark Kilmurry for the clear vision. Even though this performance was comedic, on a deeper level, there was underlying commentary on the influence of power and selfishness in politics today. 

 

The work harnesses Bertold Brecht dramatic techniques and acknowledges this throughout. Elements of narration and breaking the fourth wall, recognising that this is a play, elevating the performance. This took me back to my year 12 drama days when I was first introduced to this style of performance. I can see this show being a hit for HSC students due to the clear connection to theatre practices, ensemble work and the reflection of Australian politics. 

 

It is obvious the Director (Mark Kilmurry) and Playwright (Sam O’Sullivan) have worked tirelessly to produce this polished performance with clear direction and a well-written script that gained large moments of audience reaction. At times, the audience's laughter was so loud we missed the delivery of lines that proceeded. Perhaps it was the small theatre acoustics or the piece that just resonated too hard with the audience! Nevertheless, the wit of this Australian work was a hit with audiences. 

McGuffin Park is running till the 23rd of November, tickets can be purchased here.