THEATRE: BELLE’S LINE

BY TRISCHELLE ROBERTS

Visiting the Old Fitzroy is always pleasant: relaxed atmosphere, great food, and fresh, interesting performances. However, Belle’s Line is something quite extraordinary.

This production began with a small acting/writing group who met once a week in an old warehouse. The result is both organic and genuine.

The plotline focuses on a young woman, Belle, as she attempts to weigh her love against her ambition and dreams. The choice of Tamara Asmar as writer-elect was certainly a good one: she treats her story with a poignant sensitivity and the moments are achingly familiar.

This script is realised by a highly capable cast featuring Sophie Cleary, whose performance as Belle is both subtle and compelling. Alan Flower’s direction evidences a great feeling for the simplicity and candour of the script, while minimal set and lighting design work effectively to create a vivid and dynamic atmosphere.

Until 23 December. The Old Fitzroy Theatre, cnr. Cathedral and Dowling St, Woolloomoolo. Tickets: $20-$28, $34 BLS (Beer, Laksa and Show), Tuesdays $16 or $24 BLS. www.rocksurfers.org