Last shot at fame game aims to draws [sic] the laughs

By Natasha Rudra, The Canberra Times, Saturday, May 1, 2010

_{Image: FARCICAL: Naomi Milthorpe as Rosalind and Sam Hannan-Morrow as Paul in a scene from Canberra Repertory’s new production Moon Over Buffalo.}

What would you do if you had one last chance at fame?

In the Canberra Repertory’s new production Moon Over Buffalo, the answer lies in slapstick and pratfalls.

Moon Over Buffalo, written by American playwright Ken Ludwig, tells the story of George and Charlotte, fading theatre stars who are unexpectedly given the chance to make it big in the movies.

The only complications are George’s affair with a young co-star and charlotte’s plan to leave him for a lawyer.

Cue mistaken identities, make-ups and break-ups and legendary film director Frank Capra.

Repertory director Cate Clelland said she was drawn to the farce and slapstick.

"It is funny, I hope you all laugh. But at the same time I hope there’s something there where people will recognized themselves," she said.

"Comedy has a tiny serious intent, because it’s based on our weaknesses, how selfish and greedy we all are."

The cast includes Ian Croker and Barbara Denham in the lead roles as George and Charlotte.

Clelland has previously directed another Ken Ludwig play Lend Me a Tenor, for the company.

"…There’s a lot of rushing in and out of doors, people just missing each other and people not recognizing each other and I enjoy that kind of thing," she said.

Sam Hannan-Morrow, who plays the former fiancé of George and Charlotte’s daughter, Rosalind, said most of his acting work was in drama or other non-comedy theatre.

"It’s very good to do comedies, I’m very fond of them and this play in particular has a lot to offer," he said.

"Life is a farce, it’s nice to hold this particular mirror up to life."

_{Moon Over Buffalo runs until May 15, Theatre 3, Repertory Lane, Acton. Tickets from $27-$35. For more information go to www.canberrarep.org.au}