‘Mrs Warren’s Profession’ – Sydney Theatre Company

MRS WARREN’S PROFESSION – BY GEORGE BERNARD SHAW
DIRECTED BY SARAH GILES
SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY – WHARF 1
19 FEBRUARY – 6 APRIL 2013
EXTENDED SEASON: 4 – 20 JULY 2013

Lea: Ahhhhhh! I really don’t mind a historically drawn drama, but the characters in this production of Mrs Warren’s Profession seem to exist singularly, rather than weave into an entangled and complex entity. Mind you, that is part of the point of this play. Everyone kind of ends up alone. Isolated, heading toward their own goals, standards and dreams. I did enjoy each of the actor’s performances at different points and would like to see more of their work in other productions. A strange feeling to be left with. A bit ‘meh’.

Sybil: I think I’d read this play back in uni (in the dark ages) and so I had a vague memory of the plot and themes. Sometimes watching new productions of known pieces is a revelation – new themes emerge, different characterisations shine different lights on the story progression. But, for me, this production did none of these things. Strong actors and staging but I didn’t feel like there was anything new or exciting brought to the production.

My overriding sense-memory is of the overpowering scent of roses from the spectacular wall at the rear of the stage. Cloying, overly floral and stifling. A bit like the atmosphere of the society being portrayed.

IN SUMMARY

PRE SHOW EATS: The Bar at the End of the Wharf. Only the second time we’ve been here, first time eating. Delicious tasting/sharing plates.
POST SHOW DRINKS: The Bar at the End of the Wharf. Why stray far when the view is so fine?
HANGOVER STATUS: Stock standard. We knew we’d had a few, but none too many.