GenQ - For the not so straight individual

Entertaining Mr Sloane - Melbourne Theatre Company.

There is just something about the Fairfax Studio at the Arts Centre that elevates a play to a certain level of intimacy that you dont find in a bigger theatre. This is what I found with the MTC's latest offering, Entertaining Mr Sloane.

The 4 hander play relays the story of Kath (the inestimable Amanda Muggleton) who finds a lodger in a library, known only as Mr Sloane (Home and Away's Ben Guerens). Sloane is a cross between Adonis and a School boy. Very cute! He has Kath and her brother (MTC Regular, Richard Piper) eating out of the palm of his hand, and plays them one against the other. Their father, played in one of his best performances by Bob Hornery, recognises Sloane, and his past is about to violently catch up with him.



If I had to describe the play in one word, it would be cheeky. The work, written by Joe Orton in 1964, feels quite contemporary, however back then it would have been slightly controversial. The first act is all about Kath seducing Sloane who is trying to seduce her brother. Both are old enough to be his parents. We go to interval with Kath and Sloane writhing on the floor together. Some partial nudity too! All I can say is "Hello Ben Guerens' butt!"


The design of the show is once again top notch. The set (in the middle of a rubbish dump) and costumes reflected very well the feel of an old english 2 storey townhouse.

Overall I would recommend this show to anyone who appreciates a fun night out at the theatre. There's nothing too heavy here folks, just pure entertainment!

Entertaining Mr Sloane is playing at The Arts Centre Fairfax Studio until February 10th, 2007. For tickets of further information please contact The Melbourne Theatre Company: www.mtc.com.au or the Arts Centre: www.theartscentre.com.au .