Reviewer: Gail Sjogren

Many years ago, as a student, I studied and watched performances of Our Town, the most frequently performed of all American plays. So I was less than excited at the prospect of a new production. But the National Theatre group has reminded me just why this play is, and has always been, so popular.

It is not a story of high drama or fast paced action. Rather it is a compassionate and thought provoking exploration of the simple things which make life so worth living. For the audience, as in life, there are chuckles and there are tears. "Our town" is every tow4 peopled with characters played by a talented cast including some of Ballarat's best known performers and some newcomers. Julian Oldfield's direction gives the production a relaxed style and a simple sincerity.

Hedley Thomson is outstanding as the Stage Manager, chatting to the audience, slipping in and out of roles as various townspeople and drawing together the moments of joy and of sorrow out of which comes the sense of optimism and acceptance which pervades the play.
There is no se! only a few chairs and tables. There are no costumes, only a few hats and aprons. Yet the small town of Grover's Corners, and the families whose lives we share, are vividly brought to life in their 'growing up, marrying, living and dying.'

I am really grateful to Ballarat National Theatre for providing me with the chance to renew my acquaintance with this remarkable piece of theatre.