CASANOVA
Sun Herald
Sunday March 27, 2011
THIS breezy historical romp comes from the pen of TV writer Russell T. Davies who, among other things, is credited for revitalising the BBC's Dr Who series.Originally a 2005 mini-series, Casanova starred both David Tennant and Peter O'Toole in the title role, with the elder looking back on his amorous adventures.In this gorgeous, softly lit stage adaptation by director Mark Kilmurry, the ageing Casanova is played elegantly by Michael Ross and is well supported by Catherine McGraffin as Edith, the comely maid who has agreed to help organise his memoirs.Tim Walter is deliciously intelligent and charming as the young Casanova and Catherine Moore is very fine as Casanova's unobtainable sweetheart Henriette. She is a female version of himself in some ways and she sings beautifully.Comic relief comes from the hilarious Jamie Oxenbould as Casanova's nemesis, Grimani.If you're after a raunchy tale you won't find it here. The sex scenes are quick and mostly for laughs. It could easily have been Carry On Casanova but the evening is enriched with a double dose of heartache and tenderness. EBCRITIC'S RATING 7/10ENSEMBLE THEATREUNTIL APRIL 23BOOKINGS (02) 9929 0644TICKETS $27-$67
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