Merlyn Theatre, Malthouse until March 8, 2013
Reviewer: Kate Herbert on Feb 26, 2013
Stars: **1/2
This review was published in Herald Sun online on Wed Feb 27, 2013, and in print some time later. KH
There are certainly some
meaty issues about political and familial power relationships in Stephen
Sewell’s 1988 play, Hate, but the content is buried under repetitive dialogue
and relentless tirades from the five family members.
Despite the density of
the text, the performances from the cast are strong, particularly William Zappa
as John Gleason, the tyrannical, manipulative father, corporate giant and
Liberal party stalwart.
John summons to his
country home, his wife, Eloise (Glenda Linscott), and adult children, Raymond
(Grant Piro), the stockbroker, Celia (Sara Wiseman) the nurse, and Michael (Ben
Geurens) the layabout.
Even before his arrival,
John’s powerful, chauvinistic and rightwing presence is palpable as the
siblings seethe with rage and venom about their father’s treatment of his
children.
Raymond rails about his
father’s deception and mismanagement of the family company, Celia blusters
about her choice to isolate herself from the business and her resentment and
hatred of her father, and Michael reveals his mistrust, sense of betrayal and
inability to commit to anything.
Meanwhile, Mother lives
in a state of cheerful denial and relentless positivity.