‘The Speechwriter’ is written and directed by Anna Bennetts. This Eggshell Stomp world premier production was developed with the assistance of Stages WA. It is showing at the Blue Room in Northbridge until the 10^th November. All shows at 8.00 pm.

University student Steve (Ethan Tomas) has decided to take a ‘year out’, earn some extra pocket money and get a better start in life by working in Canberra. Very soon he is offered the post of speechwriter to the Prime Minister (Alex Manfrin - who has a remarkable resemblance to John How-odd). However Steve’s blue-collar Mum, Josie (Claire Munday) finds it difficult to cope with a son who, despite his socialistic background, writes powerful right-wing speeches against all her principles.

Dan Luxton gave a powerful performance as the alcoholic Minister for Social Services, whilst reading one of the speechwriter’s orations. Dave Maguire and Brodie Caporn (excellent) were the radio reporters. Alex Manfrin added that magical insight as to what possibly happens behind the scenes.

Production design by Brad Reid worked well, although a few too many locations were employed. Lighting design by Steve Warren was good but with variable operating.

The first act’s script could possibly be pruned and slightly restructured. With the General Election still a couple of weeks away, perhaps I am already ‘electioned out!’ This was clever satire, but despite a high standard of acting, sadly it didn’t quite grab me.

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