Review: The Beast

In the revival of Eddie Perfect’s play The Beast, a group of organic-produce-loving urbanites have decided to pull up roots and relocate to the country. In search of the simple life, they drastically overcomplicate things with their demands for an ‘ethical’ calf to butcher for an elaborate nose-to-tail style degustation dinner party.

There is a sickly sweet satisfaction in the way The Beast dissects pretentious food and wine fads. The satire straddles the edge of politically correct as the play careens through topics like the housing market, sustainability, ethical produce, marriage and even abortion. The comedic factor is well written and expertly delivered by the cast. Rohan Nicol’s character Simon drew plenty of gasps and groans from the cast as he personified every smug, hypocritical foodie you’ve ever met.

Perfect’s female characters were also incredibly strong, written without even the slightest hint of stereotype. While nearly every scene had at least one laugh out loud moment, this writer will never be able to forget the grotesque hilarity of the calf-butchering scene. Trust me, this is a play not to be missed. (CW)

★★★★

Jul 27–Aug 14, various show times. The Drama Theatre, Sydney Opera House. $89.90-$139.90. Tickets & info: thebeastplay.com

BY CHANTAL WALSH