See more recent reviews at theatreview.org, the NZ Performing Arts Review & Directory

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THE MYSTERY OF IRMA VEP: Exquisite Theatre of the Ridiculous
Fortune Theatre, Dunedin
By Charles Ludlam 
Director: Jonathon Hendry
- reviewed by Terry MacTavish

Director Jonathon Hendry has perfectly understood the genre and ensured that every element fits seamlessly to make an irresistible end-of-tough-year treat. Hendry’s affectionate exploitation of the most absurd theatrical devices complements Ludlam’s mad script almost flawlessly.

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PERPLEX: Funny, thought-provoking, very entertaining and genuinely uplifting
Herald Theatre, Aotea Centre, Auckland LIVE, Auckland
By Marius von Mayenburg 
Directed by Sophie Roberts
Presented by Silo Theatre
- reviewed by Leigh Sykes

I urge you to go and see the play, because as well as being a witty, clever and insightful piece of writing, this production of it is a strongly performed and uproariously funny piece of theatre.

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STAB at BATS 2016
THE RIME OF THE MODERN MARINER: Clever craft elements diluted by structural flaws
BATS Theatre, The Heyday Dome, 1 Kent Tce, Wellington
Adapted by The Playground Collective 
from the graphic novel by Nick Hayes 
based on the epic poem by Samuel Taylor Coleridge: The Rime of the Ancient Mariner 
Directed by Robin Kerr
- reviewed by John Smythe

As an adaptation of an adaptation, this tale has morphed from lyrically literate epic poem through dichromatic graphic novel-cum-poem to this ensemble performing arts presentation.

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THE PRESIDENT: The Future is Now
The Classic Studio, Auckland
Written and performed by Alexander Sparrow 
Directed by Patrick Davies
- reviewed by Tim George

With hideously perfect timing Alexander Sparrow’s new show The President Tour arrives at the Classic to offer a terrifying view into the mind of US president-elect Donald Trump.

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A GHOST TALE: A Bit Wispy
Basement Theatre, Lower Greys Ave, Auckland
Written by – Benjamin Teh
Directed by Jesse Hilford 
Presented by Basement Theatre
- reviewed by Tim George

Written by Benjamin Teh, A Ghost Tale is a valiant attempt at tackling a genre anthology onstage. It is an interesting gumbo of ideas and themes which don’t quite blend together.

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THE PRESIDENT: Funny, clever, depressing
The Classic Studio, Auckland
Written and performed by Alexander Sparrow 
Directed by Patrick Davies
- reviewed by Nik Smythe

Literally a minute before Sparrow’s entrance one of the eight opening night patrons confirms that Trump has secured the presidency, and thus with a collectively heavy heart we begin the evening’s entertainment. What we hoped would be a refreshingly ironic laugh at a deluded egotist’s refusal to accept reality is instead a dark, potential portent of what we may be about to face, albeit satirical ...

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See more recent reviews at theatreview.org.nz, the NZ Performing Arts Review & Directory

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