THEATRE: DEALER’S CHOICE
Dealer’s Choice is a fast talking English tale of six men and their love of, or addiction to, the game of poker. Tied into this seemingly straightforward card game is a plot to open a restaurant in a toilet, attempts to negotiate a relationship between father and son, and an unyielding determination to bleed any available suckers, or ‘mugs’, for all they’re worth. Imagine Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels meets Down and Out in Paris and London set in the basement of a questionable restaurant, and you’re starting to get close.
The ensemble cast work smoothly and succinctly with both their actions and words, and watching their reinterpretation of familiar poker actions to tell their stories is like watching an elaborate ritualistic dance. The production as a whole is incredibly slick: director Craig Illot is clearly running a tight ship, which operates perfectly with Patrick Marber’s polished and highly acclaimed script. Dealer’s Choice is, in fact, so refined that it can initially be difficult to engage with. However, a little work on the part of the audience only serves to add weight to the overall experience as the play kicks in after interval, leaving you stunned, impressed and fascinated by the psychology of these men and their games.
Until 4 July. Darlinghurst Theatre, 19 Greenknowe Avenue, Potts Point. $27-37, 8356 9987 or darlinghursttheatre.com
