THEATRE: THE BOOK OF EVERYTHING
“When I grow up, I’m going to be… happy!” declares Thomas Klopper, age nine – nearly ten. Weren’t we all? The exception with Thomas, (Matthew Whittet) is that he really is a little bit different – he regularly chats with Jesus at dinner, witnesses hailstorms in the middle of summer and recreates the Plague of Egypt inside his home (fish tanks, frogs and all). Set in Amsterdam after WWII, The Book of Everything is where Thomas keeps a record of all the experiences he understands and cogitates all the things he doesn’t. He records the day old Mrs van Amersfoort (Julie Forsyth) (a Witch and his neighbour) put a spell on the Bumbiter (the neighbourhood’s rabid dog) and wonders why he’s such a coward for not delivering to his father the note that reads ‘A man who hits his wife dishonours himself’. It’s also where he drafts his first love letter to the war-marked but beautiful, Eliza (Yael Stone). Director Neil Armfield appears to have encouraged the actors to roam free amongst the script, resulting in playful yet genuine performances. This story is engaging for children, humbling for adults and fun for both – you’re guarenteed to walk out happy.
Jan 4-31, Belvoir St Theatre, 25 Belvoir St, Surry Hills, $22-57, belvoir.com.au
