RRAMP
The Collector, the Archivist and the Electrocrat
Arts House
North Melbourne Town Hall
5 – 8 September
Devised and Performed by Christine Johnston, Lisa O'Neill,
Peter Nelson, Animation - Ahmarnya Price, Video Production – Jen Jackson,
Costume Design and Construction – Selene Cochrane, Lighting Design – David
Walters, Production Stage Manager – Leila Maruan.
Put simply, RRAMP is a beautifully produced quirky,
eccentric collection of animated (Ahmarnya Price) love stories, mostly about
life in the hen house. These are seamlessly presented by The ‘extraordinary’
Collector (Christine Johnston) with the assistance of her, longsuffering, ‘tenants’
the dancing Archivist (Lisa O’Neil) and musician Electrocrat (Peter
Nelson).
This sophistically costumed (Selene Cochrane), formidable talented
ensemble entrance as they bemuse with song, dance and story.
The disturbing issues of hording - at the core of RRAMP,
though only really touched upon, provoke thought and leave a residue of
intrigue. In searching for meaning with
regard to this motif there is, amongst other things, a suggestion that hoarding
has vicariousness at its heart.
Many will recognize Christine Johnston as the easily lead
and rather fragile Kransky Sister, Eve.
In RRAMP her ‘over the top’ character, reminiscent of Morticia from ‘The
Addams Family’, of The Collector allows her to explore and thoroughly entertain
as a bemusing and controlling spinster of a darker more creepy nature.
Musically the work is very satisfying and the lovely,
cleverly integrated dancing by Lisa O’Neil is delightful.
We are so fortunate, that currently, this type of vital and
inspiring alternative work is being developed, supported and brought to us by our
arts bodies. And for our part - we
should endeavor not to miss any of it!
Suzanne Sandow
For Stage Whispers
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