Reviewed by Kate O'Sullivan
Kalamunda Dramatic Society’s production of Norm Foster’s On A First Name Basis delivers an engaging evening of nuanced performances and thoughtful staging. Directed by Jay Shaw, the play strikes a delicate balance between humour and heartfelt revelations, navigating the complexities of its two-character dynamic well.
The set design is strong, offering a well-appointed box set that efficiently uses the modest KADS stage. The central chairs anchor the space without overwhelming it, drawing the audience’s focus without detracting from the intimate atmosphere. Simple yet effective lighting complements the set, though the addition of diegetic lighting—such as lamps turned on progressively to reflect the passage of time—could have added another layer of realism. Directional lighting in the hallway enhances the sense of depth in the house, and sound cues are well-timed and understated.
The performances are the heart of this production. Sharon Menzies skillfully navigates her character’s arc, beginning with a guarded formality that gradually gives way to an emotionally resonant core (no spoilers here). Her comic timing and dryness are particularly noteworthy, bringing humour at just the right moments to punctuate the drama without undermining its weight. These interjections land perfectly, eliciting laughter and further endearing her character to the audience.
Jarrod Buttery, reprising a role he knows intimately, captures the duality of his character with a blend of absentminded distraction and earnestness. However, there are moments where his delivery could use a touch more spontaneity—a minor trade-off for the familiarity he brings to the part.
Costuming effectively underscores the relationship dynamics from the outset, with subtle touches like the interactions around the newspaper and the glass reinforcing the characters’ rapport in the opening moments. Movements between the actors feel organic, enhancing the conversational tone that drives the play.
While the occasional quick exits into the adjoining room felt a touch rushed, overall, the staging supports the story effectively. There were moments where the blocking leaned toward the conventional "face the audience" approach, which, while clear, might have benefited from more naturalistic movements to deepen the realism, but on the whole, these were not a huge distraction.
On A First Name Basis is a play that thrives on the interplay of dialogue and character chemistry. While there’s always room for fine-tuning in some staging and delivery choices, the production offers an entertaining and thoughtful exploration of connection and vulnerability. It’s a credit to the Kalamunda Dramatic Society and director Jay Shaw that this well-loved piece finds new depth and warmth on their stage.
Reviewer Note: Kate has previously worked with Jarrod Buttery in a production at Harbour Theatre in 2023. She has also performed at KADS, most recently in 2014. Tickets for this review were provided by the theatre company.
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