Reviewer - John Poliness

Neil Simon, a Pulitzer Prize winner, is one of the funniest and most influential of modern playwrights. In recent times Ballarat National Theatre has given us two of his plays, The Odd Couple, and The Sunshine Boys. 'National's current production, Rumors, is another of his successes.

The action occurs in a New York apartment cleverly devised by Frank Lilley's set. Here, as guests arrive at the home of the deputy mayor and his wife, gunfire is heard.

All are concerned for their reputations, and their attempts to avoid scandal lead to hilarious events. The talented cast makes the most of the confusion and chaos, the dialogue is rapid and witty, and the American accents generally well sustained. Marilyn Chestnut, Fred Fargher and Andrew Seeary are outstanding and are ably supported at the Courthouse by Peppa Sindar, Pam Maiden, Julian Oldfield and Tony McGuiness.

This is one of the most experienced comedy casts we have seen at the Courthouse for several years, and newcomers Bev Harris and Sarah Kernighan are valuable additions to this team.