Preview-The Ends of the Earth-Wagging Tails Ensemble
26-11-12
By: Meaghan McGurgan
HKELD sat down with Simon Grunberger and Amy Whitby-Baker of The Ends of the Earth which will be playing at the Fringe. Enjoy!
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Morris Panych, the author of this play, is called "A man for all seasons of Canadian theatre". Panych is getting his Hong Kong debut next month, directed and produced by local artist Simon Grunberger of the Wagging Tails Ensemble. Grunberger had worked on the show previously in New York in the lighting department and had experimented with the piece in acting classes. Feeling attached to it, he decided to bring Panych's work to the people of HK. "It's a very fun show." he says.
The Ends of the Earth is about two men named Frank and Walter. They are always trying to escape from one another for various reasons but end up following each other instead. They find themselves in a hotel ran by a couple with murderous feelings towards visitors. Hijinks ensue but with meaning. Paynch's play explores themes like fear as a self-fulfilling prophecy and the significance of fate.
Starring local English theatre actors Damien Barnes, David Jenkins, Brad Powers, Jennie Davies, Nicole Garbellini and Ashley Blair in a challenging play that requires rapid fire delivery, comedic timing and ensemble style story telling, audience members should enjoy seeing some of their favorite actors play some interesting characters. Maybe you'll also get to see a performer in the type of role you've never seen before?
Grunberger was most excited to tell HKELD about his "dynamic" staging of The Ends of the Earth. Wagging Tails has decided to block the show in the round. Very few shows are done in the round in Hong Kong due to venue restrictions but the new and improved Fringe Club space allowed Simon to experiment with one of the more innovative styles in blocking, "You may not be able to see everyone all the time, but you will be able to see at least one performer all the time. It's different." Whitby-Baker adds. "Wherever you're sitting you're bound to see something interesting."
The best part of watching a play in the round is the community involvement, watching the reactions of the strangers across the way. Wagging Tails takes this further by placing actors in the audience and encouraging audience interraction with the performers. Many of the actors play multiple roles within the production allowing the audience to see performers transform while sitting right next to them.
When asked why he thought people would enjoy seeing his play, Simon replied, "I think the material is funny and quite deep. All the characters in the play are on the quest for their own truth. And although they are a bit wacky, they have something interesting to say. It's an unconventional play."
There is a discount ticket scheme in place the production team wanted to make sure you knew about. You can save twenty dollars by attending the Tuesday or Wednesday shows, which is great for struggling artists or people saving up for the holidays. Due to the current renovations at the Fringe Club, tickets can only be bought on location. You can also order tickets by phone by calling the Fringe at 2521-7251.
HKELD always tries to encourage readers to consider local artists when choosing their evening's entertainment. You can see a show that is just as good at a fraction of the cost of international tours and it supports a member of the Hong Kong arts community. "My cast and crew worked very hard and they do it for love.They don't get paid to do it." Simon says.
This article is best finished by a lovely quote from ever professional Ms. Whitby-Baker, the DSM of the production.
"Since coming to Hong Kong, this is one of the best things I've been involved in... I think it's fun. The cast and crew, Simon has put his heart and soul into this thing... It's how I think in the round theatre should be. It's engagaing. It's a really good show and I think people should be flocking to go see it."
The Ends of the Earth is playing at the Fringe Club, December 4th-8th at 8pm. There is a matinee on Saturday the 8th at 2pm, as well. For more detailed information about the production you can click here.
Comments
Joy
Didn't know this show was happening until I got the newsletter. Will be buying tickets. Is it safe for kids?
27 November 2012Simon
Dear Joy,
28 November 2012
Could you tell me how old is your kid?
Thank you!
SimonDavid
Hi Joy, there is the very occasional use of bad language (i.e. the f word), but nothing extreme. Actually I think it is generally safe. It is a comedy. There is at one stage a gun is involved but always comedic. Hope that helps. David. :-)
30 November 2012