REVIEW – DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS
Image: Photo: Kurt Sneddon
Lawrence Jameson (Tony Sheldon) is the old master, charming wealthy, bored women out of large sums of money. Freddie Benson (Matt Hetherington) is the crass up-and-comer, eager to get in on the scam. Together they take to the stage in this uproariously funny show with twists and turns right to the end.
The staging of Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is a visual feast – with gloriously ‘loud’ characters, energetic dance numbers and arresting sets. The French Riviera has never looked this good. However, it’s the wry wit of the dialogue – either spoken or in song – that brings in the laughs.
Matt Hetherington is a revelation. We know he can sing, but it’s his physical humour that fills the stage. Once you have experienced Ruprecht you will never be the same. Watch for Katrina Retallick as Oklahoma oil princess Joelene Oakes in a showstopper that nearly pilfers the show.
Effervescently funny without a trace of schmaltz. (GW)
Until Dec 8, Theatre Royal, 108 King St, Sydney, $49-110, ticketmaster.com.au
