By Joy Watters at Perth Theatre

JIMMY CHISHOLM, co-writer and dame in this year’s Perth show, believes festive entertainment ought to be more anarchic, and this year’s offering is more than a bit of a pantomime. Don’t get me wrong, it is very funny but it is a little lacking on the characterisation and story front. There is nothing like a bit of daftness—but this show, while depicting the fight between good and evil, has a little conflict itself, between traditional and anarchic.

It is billed as a 21st century show taking the form forward while retaining some of the original qualities. This version of the fairytale, co-written with director Ian Grieve, is a mad journey, beginning at the castle of Duke Douglas where baby Beauty has just been born. The battle between good and evil takes a few little diversions, such as a scene with leprechauns drinking with Erik the Viking. Nope, no one has a clue why he’s there!

Initially it fails to get a grip, mainly due to a lack of focus and getting the characters and situation firmly established. That said, there are characters who firmly stamp their personalities on the piece, such as Amanda Beveridge as the bad fairy/ Auntie Dementia. Splendidly evil in a sexy batgirl costume, she is everything she should be, keeping the piece on the rails.

Stephen Clyde, the prince who wakes Beauty with a kiss, is another strong performance. He portrays a sort of Robin Hood, having a bit of purpose and delivering his lines in a lovely deep voice. The other characters seem understated and could have done with a bit more oomph. Greg Powrie’s Prince Ninny could have been even more foppish for greater effect, while the King and Queen are asked to tell gags rather than create characters.

Chisholm’s dame is unrestrained and hilarious, showing great rapport with the audience. He is the agent provocateur. While generally meeting with approbation, there were some who did not want to stand up with the lights on them and be bunnies minutes into the show. Overall it’s fun but comedy requires discipline in writing and performing; in this case, some anarchy rules.