Reviewed by Bianca Watkins
The New Theatre presents the Arthur Miller’s classic hard-hitting play All My Sons. The play was written in 1946, in the aftermath of the Second World War. Life is rosy or is it? Business man Joe (Greg Poppleton) and his wife Kate (Kath Gordon) are living in bliss, the American Dream. Kate has faith that their youngest son Larry survived the war, despite being missing in action for the past three years. Chris, the older son, (Kyle Barrett) decides to marry Larry’s former girlfriend, girl-next-door Ann (Bridget Haberecht). It is then that the unforgivable truth of Joe’s past begins to unravel. Ann’s brother George (James Hartley) wants Joe to face the wartime charges he eluded after he supplied defective parts to combat planes used in the war.
The production explores the tension between idealism and practicality as Joe is under pressure to choose between business and family or should he uphold his ethical and civic responsibilities.
Father of the family Joe Keller has been suppressing guilt, over the deaths he caused to Americans during the war, and possibly to his own son. But is is Kath’s performance that shines as she consistently gives a great performance as the loyal wife and grieving mother.
Set Designer Kate Beere, has returned to the New Theatre, delivering a striking set design of the front facade of a 1940’s Sydney suburban home. In partnership with lighting designer Aron Murray they created a stunning atmosphere, particularly at the start of the performance. Director, Saro Lusty-Cavallari kept a pace brisk and brought this harrowing story to life, honouring Arthur Miller’s clever and tragic writing.
Newtown’s New Theatre is showing All My Sons from ANZAC Day until 27 May.