The Sunline by Malevich Theatre at Russian House

When I was cutting my client Anna's hair in the salon, I was invited to this theatre play. I've never heard of the playwright Ivan Vyrypaev, apparently the most famous contemporary writer. 

It's a fast paced philosophical investigation into the couple's relationships, performed powerfully by two actors in this beautiful building in Fitzroy. 

I'm a big fan of Chekhov, so, it was a good opportunity to experience another Russian play. 

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The Great Gatsby by 1812 Theate

A great theatre play adapted from this familiar story. 

I thought all cast were brilliant. 

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Hydra by Brighton Theatre Company

An intriguing story of George Johnson and Charmaine Clift. Although I've never heard of them, the play successfully portrayed their tumultuous but affectionate relationships. 

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Mamma Mia at Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar School

A fabulous production of this iconic musical in the beautiful theatre space. 

I always get an enormously positive energy when watching high school productions. And, what an amazing talent these young ones possess. 

Thank you so much for your hard work. 

I thoroughly enjoyed it. 

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Garage Girls at La Mama

I've seen this fabulous play online last year, and today I had an opportunity to see at La Mama in Carlton, a very charming venue. 

The story of Alice Anderson itself is very fascinating. 

The fast paced production is very well thought out with all star cast, particularly Madelaine Nunn as Alice, an enormous talent. 

I'd love to see this as a featured film. 

I can't resist the idea that Alice and Clarice Beckett knew each other, driving a car in Melbourne. 

Also, there's a great book by Loretta Smith, "A spanner in the works". She was featured in this podcast. The link is here. 

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Berlin by Heidelberg Theatre Company

A powerful play by Joanna Murray-Smith at my favourite venue in Rosanna. 

I've seen it before, but, it still makes me think about the complexity of its storyline. 

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Strapless by Deborah Davis

From Ivanhoe Library. 

A great book about one of the most iconic paintings, Madame X, by my favourite John Singer Sargent. 

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Perfect Days - a film

I went to Palace Balwyn cinema this morning.  A lovely cinema. It was almost empty. 

A great film. It's a meditation on life. The film tells a lot about the complexity of our life without saying almost anything, leaving it to the views' imaginations. 

The only thing I found odd was when he hugged his sister when they met after many years. I don't think a Japanese in that generation does that. 

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At the Foot of the Cherry Tree by Alli Parker

An incredible story. 

I used to have a client who had the same experience as Cherry Parker, unfortunately she passed away a couple of years ago. 

I do hope the author will write the sequel describing how they lived here in Melbourne after they came here. 

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"Love Song" by Brighton Theayre Company

My favourite theatre company with solid performances. 

I thought the story line is a bit weak with regards to "the infectious effect of love and the redemptive power of hope".

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The heartbreak choir by Melbourne Theatre Company

It's been raining all day long. I "rented" this production online. 

A great story with solid performers who can definitely sing so well, particularly Emily Milledge. 

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Painting trip to the Grampians

Just came back from a four day trip. 

A fantastic stay at Book lover's corner" Airbnb in Hamilton. 

A great takeaway dinner from Thai Town restaurant. 

Dunkeld, Portland, Port Fairy.... Beautiful. 

This painting is probably the best work. The link is here. https://www.instagram.com/p/C1tixHzv_-c/?igsh=bDBiZTQ5OXNwbzI3

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Bloody Christmas

The best gift one can give. 

This morning at Lifeblood Bundoora Donor Centre, Melbourne. 

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"Miss Saigon" at Her Majesty's Theatre

Putting aside the controversial nature of the story, particularly the depiction of Vietnamese women, this is one of the best musical productions I've seen recently. The sheer scale of it baffles me considering the small space in the theatre. 

What an amazing talent these actors show on stage. 

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"Ladies in Black" by Heidelberg Theatre Company

A wonderful musical performed brilliantly by all the cast in this lovely venue. 

The story, music and costumes... 

Rafaela Cleeve Gerkins, Maree Barnett, Matt Biscombe, to name a few. What a talent!!

One of the best musical I've seen recently. No wonder it's sold out. 

I'm looking forward to their 2024 productions. 

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