Melbourne Observer. 120523C. Wednesday, May 23, 2012. Part C. Pages 71-88

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 23, 2012 - Page 71

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Observer Showbiz Every Week in the Melbourne Observer

Review: La Mama’s Quartet/The Razor ............. Page 73 Radio Confidential: Stan Rofe remembered ......... Page 74 The Spoiler: Next week’s ‘soaps’ plotlines ................ Page 73 Jim and Aaron: Best DVD-film selections ...................... Page 77 Cheryl Threadgold: Community Theatre - it’s a wrap ........... Page 80 PLUS THE LOVATT”S MEGA CROSSWORD

NATIONAL INTEREST Reconciliation concert on Sunday

● Julia Blake as June Stewart, mother of murdered Australian journalist Tony Stewart, in National Interest, playing at the Fairfax Studio from June 6-July 21.

■ The Melbourne premiere of National Interest is being preThe journalists had been sent by their networks, Channel Seven sented from June 6 to July 21 at the Arts Centre Melbourne, and Channel Nine, to investigate decolonisation in East Timor Fairfax Studio. and the threat of invasion by neighbouring Indonesia.

Written by award-winning playwright Aidan Fennessy, NaIt took one month for the families of the journalists to learn that tional Interest charts the incredible story of his extended family, their children were missing, and another month to confirm that they the Stewarts, whose 21-year old son Tony Stewart was one of were killed. the Balibo Five.

And still, after two official inquiries (1999 and 2007), those reTaking on one of Australia’s most controversial issues, Na- sponsible for the murder of the Balibo Five have not been prostional Interest explores the nature of justice through the eyes of ecuted. those to whom justice matters the most.

National Interest takes place in the living room of the Stewart On October 16, 1975, five Australian-based journalists, family, who are joined by the ghosts of Tony Stewart, Greg Greg Shackleton, Tony Stewart, Gary Cunningham, Shackleton and Gary Cunningham.

Malcolm Rennie and Brian Peters were murdered on asJulia Blake portrays Tony Stewart’s mother June who, as signment in the town of Balibo, East Timor, at the hands of time flows back and forth from 1975 to 2007 and with memory the Indonesian military. fading, is forced to recount the events of her son’s murder yet again through an official inquiry, even though she along with everyone else already knows the truth.

The cast features James Bell (Tony Stewart), Julia Blake (June Stewart), Grant Cartwright (Gary Cunningham), ■ Phoenix Theatre Company presents A Funny Thing HapMichelle Fornasier (Jane Stewart), Stuart Halusz (Greg pened On the Way To The Forum at Doncaster Playhouse, Shackleton) and Polly Low (Coroner Dorelle Pinch).

679 Doncaster Rd, Doncaster from Friday (May 25) until Venue: Arts Centre Melbourne, Fairfax Studio Saturday, June 2. The show is directed and choreographed by Season Dates: June 6-July 21 Renee Maloney, with Katie Packer as Musical Director.

Opening Night: Monday June 11, 8pm Cast includes Steven Keane, Rebecca Muratore, Nicholas Tickets: From $56 (Under 30s just $33) Barca, Dale Hall, Ross McKinnon, Don Harrod, Tamblyn Smith, Bookings: The MTC Theatre Box Office 8688 0800 or Bradl;ey Storer, Bianca Mason, Michelle Di Guglielmo, Lauren mtc.com.au; Arts Centre Melbourne 1300 182 183 or Zerbi, Ruth Spencer, Claire de Freitas and Jesse Gheller. artscentremelbourne.com.au

A Funny Thing ...

● Deborah Cheetham ■ Reconciliation is the theme and music is the medium for Monash University Academy of Performing Arts (MAPA) as it brings its National Reconciliation Concert to the Melbourne Town Hall on Sunday (May 27) at 2.30 pm.

Led by the orchestra's new conductor Fabian Russell, Monash Academy Orchestra will be joined by indigenous artists: soprano Deborah Cheetham, and master didjeridu player William Barton This special concert takes MAO away from its home base at Robert Blackwood Hall on the Clayton campus of Monash University, and brings it to the civic heart of the city.

Deborah Cheetham is a Yorta Yorta soprano, composer and author who has established her place as an artist in demand.

Since her debut in 1997, Deborah has performed in theatres and concerts halls in Europe, America, the UK, New Zealand and her home base of Australia.

She created Australia's first indigenous opera, Pecan Summer, which had its premiere last year, and an excerpt will be performed in this concert.

Deborah was a 2010 finalist in Victoria for Australian of the Year, and has created Short Black Opera, a national not-for-profit opera company devoted to the development of indigenous opera singers.

William Barton is one of Australia's leading didjeridu players and played his first classical concert with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra at the age of 17.

He has played the didjeridu internationally, and was commissioned to write a didgeridu part for the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra's collaboration with composer Sean O'Boyle.

William has also collaborated with noted Australian composer Peter Sculthorpe, and Sculthorpe's work Earth Cry will feature in this concert, as will a work by William and Matthew Hindson for orchestra, didjeridu, voice and guitar.

Tickets for this concert are free, but they must be prebooked by visiting www.monash.edu/mapa or calling 9905 1111.

- Julie Houghton

Page 72 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Education and Training

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ShowBiz!

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 23, 2012 - Page 73

Observer Showbiz

Surrey Music Cafe

TV, Radio, Theatre Latest Melbourne show business news - without fear or favour

QUARTET/THE RAZOR

The Spoiler For Those Who Have Lost The Plot

Neighbours

● Hetty Kate performs at the next Surrey Music Café on Friday, May 25 at 8.00pm at the Box Hill Community Arts Centre.

■ The next Surrey Music Café will be presented by the Boite on Friday, May 25 at 8pm at the Box Hill Community Arts Centre, 470 Station St., Cnr. Combarton St, Box Hill.

Enjoy the delightful, vintage voiced Hetty Kate, backed by master of ukulele and guitar, Sam Lemann, the warm, shuffling rhythm guitar of Andy Baylor and Leigh Barker’s swinging double bass.

Wine, cheese, coffee and cake for sale from 7.30pm when the doors open.

Tickets: $18 (discount for groups over 10) Bookings: Whitehorse Tickets Nunawading: 9262 6555 or online www.surreymusic.com

The Weather And Your Health

■ Shock, horror - a play with no coarse language!

Was it boring? No. Was it entertaining? Yes, very.

Have you ever read that statistic telling us that the era most people choose as the period in which they would like to live is the 1950s/60s? Well, this is that favourite era brought to life in a two-hander written by Bethany Simons based on the reminiscences of her Nan. Simons plays the character, She. In today’s world of cynical, fast, high tech’, in-your-face everything, She seems like a naïve Pollyanna telling her story from little girl, through adolescence to homemaker in the small country town of Gilgandra, near the ‘big smoke’ of Dubbo.

It is a simple story of everyday folk in rural Australia. He, played by Daniel Mottau, is the archetypal small town Aussie bloke She marries.

A man of very words, he demonstrates the attitude of the era in a small outback town, content to have achieved his ambition of acquiring a wife who looks after him, whilst he continually does what he wants to do.

It seems hard to believe that that’s the way it was and at times, comes across as a harsh era. However, the man of few words utters the moving final line in the play, which comes as a surprise and the reaction on the face of She says it all.

Directed by David Wicks, it is sheer beautifully presented nostalgia.

The production celebrated its one hundredth performance on this final stop of a national tour at La Mama last Saturday.

Performances: until May 27, Tues, Wed, Thurs, Sun, 6.30pm. Fri, Saturday, 7.30pm. Matinees: Wednesday 1pm and Thursday 11 am.

Venue: La Mama theatre, 205 Faraday Street, Carlton.

Running time: 55 minutes.

Tickets: $25/15.

Bookings: 9347 6142 or online at www.lamama.com.au - Review by Rita Crispin

● Andrew Gray and Felicity Steel in Quartet/The Razor, playing at La Mama Courthouse, Carlton until May 27. Photo: Jeff Busby.

■ The La Mama Courthouse has undergone innovative audience seating construction for Quartet/The Razor, presented by independent Australian theatre company A Is For Atlas until May 27.

The audience is seated balcony style in the round, while down below a

by Cheryl starkly walled arena awaits confrontation.

Threadgold Set in a drawing room prior to the French Revolution, Heiner The AV screens are helpful, but inMüller’s Quartet, translated from German by Carl Weber, is derived effective to constantly visually inform from Laclos’ Les Liaisons Dang- the audience of all performance pereureuses, in contemplation of the end spectives. of humanity.

The audience is a team player in Contemporary theatre blends with live theatre and, I believe, deserves to classical music as Annie Hsieh’s be enlightened about show content. composition, based on Haydn’s String Program production details/biograQuartet in F minor Op. 55 No.2 (The phies are important, but replacing the Razor), is played by instrumentalists Ingrid Homburg (violin) and director’s ambiguous “Facts and ficJonathan Tosio (cello) to create a tions” notes with actual show information, could benefit performances by musical parallel.

Consummate actors Felicity Steel eliminating some audience uncertainty and Andrew Gray portray ex-lovers regarding response. and rivals Marquise de Merteuil and The production is a compelling perVicomte de Valmont, absorbing the formance piece, featuring a superb cast audience into their world of raw inten- and musicians. It may be worthwhile sity, lust and violence. to just step back and review some asSteel and Gray present their char- pects of the show from the audience acters with an intense, sensual physicality, emphasising every musical nu- perspective.

The alternative is to offer elitist theance during choreographed movement.

In skilled, fascinating roleplay, the ac- atre for a select few and this show and tors also switch characters and sexes. general audiences deserve better.

Season: Until May 27 Grant Cooper and Xan Colman are obviously a highly talented creative Times: Wed, Sun 6.30pm,| Thu, team, with Cooper’s ingenious set de- Fri, Sat 7.30pm sign revealing hidden surprises behind Running time: 70 minutes the walls and director Colman to be Venue: La Mama Courthouse, 349 congratulated on pushing theatrical Drummond St., Carlton. boundaries to restage this show for Tickets: $25 Full, $15 Concession Melbourne audiences.

Bookings: www.lamama.com.au From a critical perspective, how9347 6142 ever, this audience seating style risks Adult themes blind spots and visual intrusion by the - Review by Cheryl Threadgold handrail.

Independent Theatre

Home and Away ■ 7.00pm. Weeknights. Channel 7.

■ Monday, May 28. Bianca has an unexpected medical emergency, putting her pregnancy at risk. April is crushed when she learns that Dax is dating Lottie, and Roo attempts to reach out to Harvey.

■ Tuesday, May 29. Heath struggles to cope with Biana's medical dramas which has put their baby at risk. Dex is caught between Lottie and April and is struggling to decide how he feels. Roo and Lottie decide to throw Harvey a surprise picnic.

■ Wednesday, May 30. Heath visits his father in jail.

Casey has his first counselling session. A jealous Indi pokes holes in Ruby's business plans. Hayley lands herself an unexpected job.

■ Thursday, May 31. Liam tries to cut ties with Hayley, Indi faces dropping out of uni and Gina sees a glimmer of hope in Jett. Alf returns from Thailand.

■ Friday, June 1. Xavier accuses Jett of mugging Marilyn. While Marilyn is recovering from her attack.

Sasha tries to help Casey with his studies and Alf's ailment appears to be more than just jetlag.

Star Bursts The Nine Network has announced the cast for the upcoming television drama, House Husbands. ★ Leading the cast on the new 10-part series are Gary

Sweet, Rhys Muldoon, Gyton Grantley, Firass Dirani, Julia Morris, Anna McGahan and Natalie Saleeba Other cast members are still to be announced.

The Arts Show with Tom Latham on 3WBC 94.1 FM is gaining a growing audience because of the ★ high profile guests Tom attracts to the program, which

airs every second Thursday at 10am and streams on the web at www.3wbc.org.au .

Programs are archived at www.artsales.com.au/ TomLatham/ Previous guests have included Jane Clark, Curator at MONA (Museum of Old and New Art in Tasmania); Robby Perkins, Production Designer, Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries; Hank Ebes, Aboriginal art dealer and collector of everything from jet fighters to Jade burial suits.

The three upcoming shows feature these internationally acclaimed musicians and artist: pianist Andy Cowan (May 31), painter Vincent Fantauzzo (June 14), folk singer Noriana Kennedy (June 28).

Things That Go Bump In The Night will be held at the Walker St Gallery and Arts Centre, ★ Dandenong, from May 31-June 30. The event combines

James Morrison performs ■ James Morrison is to perform at the Intercontinental Hotel at The Rialto, Melbourne, on Friday, June 8.

He will perform in the Market Lane Bar, in what is being billed as the ‘Ne York end’ of Collins St. The hotel is linking with chef Guy Grossi to promote his book, Recipes From My Mother's Kitchen.

■ 6.30pm. Weeknights. Eleven.

■ Monday, May 28. Andrew tries to warn Summer about Griffin, but is thwarted when she refuses to hear him out; Callum becomes curious about some new neighbours.

■ Tuesday, May 29. Toadie is shocked to discover who is new neighbour his; Paul tries to convince his PA Zoe that she owes him a date.

■ Wednesday, May 30. Returning home from their trip to Sydney, Jade’s more committed to Kyle than ever; Tash attempts to use Vanessa’s good nature to try and get ahead at Charlie’s.

■ Thursday, May 31. Lucas’s journey towards accepting fatherhood is cranked up a notch; Rhys continues his pursuit of Vanessa.

■ Friday, June 1. Bored by her unchallenging course, Tash latches onto Andrew and Chris and tags along to their study session; later, Rhys tries to show Vanessa that his feelings are genuine.

● Dance action in Quartet/The Razor at La Mama Courthouse

visual art, music and performances. Participating will be Fabrice Bigot, Jane Burton, Jon Cattapan, Edward Colless, Matt Coyle, Irene Hanenbergh, Kotoe Ishii, Laura, George Metaxas, Stephanie Monteith, Mia Saljso, Silo String Quartet, Yumi Umiumare and Heidi Yardley. The performance will be at 6.30pm on Thursday, May 31. The live concert is scheduled for 8pm, Thursday, June 7. The live rock concert is timed for 8pm, Thursday, June 14.

Page 74 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Observer Showbiz

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Radio Confidential News from stations from around Victoria

STAN ROFE REMEMBERED

Country Crossroads

DOYEN OF MELBOURNE DISC JOCKEYS

info@country crossroads.com.au ● Big Breakfast Show.

Southern FM 88.3.

Tues. 6am-9am. ● Country Crossroads.

Casey Radio 97.7.

Wed. 10pm-12 Midnight

Rob Foenander

CASWELL TAKES ACTION

■ Renowned Australian singer-songwriter Allan Caswell has launched a lawsuit against his publishing company Sony ATV Music Publishing Australia.

Allan alleges that the music giant "didn't do its job" collecting royalty payments from American country group Alabama.

Alabama went to the top of the US charts in 1982 with the song Christmas In Dixie which Allan claims has identical parts to his 1979 classic On The Inside, the song that became a hit for Lynne Hamilton, topping the charts in Australia and reaching number three in the UK.

PAUL JOINS CORE

■ Songwriter and recording artist Paul Costa has signed to the Core Music label owned by Rod McCormack.

He joins established label artists Lachlan Bryan, Beccy Cole, Gina Jeffreys and Amber Lawrence and developing act The Apprentices.

The rising star's fourth solo album, Wheels and Steel, will be released through Core.

BRITT IS OKLAHOMA-BOUND

■ Australian artist Catherine Britt has been invited to perform at the 2012 Woody Guthrie Folk Festival in Oklahoma from July 11 - 15 Catherine joins an elite list of artists who have previously appeared at this prestigious event including Arlo Guthrie, David Crosby, Graham Nash, Jackson Browne and Wanda Jackson.

● Stan Rofe ■ Casey 97.7 FM Good Times, Classic Gold host Steve Price will present a tribute program to Stan Rofe at 8pm on Wednesday, May 30.

Stan Rofe is described as a doyen of Melbourne disc jockeys in the 1960s. He is best known for eight years at 3KZ, moving to 3UZ, and being Music Director at 3XY. ‘Stan The Man’ - famous for his ‘Hi-de-hi Victoria’ greeting - was laso heard on 3DB and Gold FM. He was born in Richmond on May 30, 1933, and died on May 16, 2003. He attended Faraday St State School in Carlton and later at Collingwood Tech.

He was a ballroom dancing teacher, and a member of the Victorian Square Dance Championship team.

At age 18, Stan Rofe was called up for National Service, followed by four years in the Citizen’s Military Forces.

In 1953, after three days tuition at the Bill Roberts Radio School, a position was secured with 7AD in Devonport, Tasmania.

He became an announcer with 3AK in 1956, before moves to 3XY and 3KZ. He hosted a listener request program in the afternoon at 3KZ, and he called football with Phil Gibbs and Harry Mueller. He was one of just 17 accredited radio commentators for the Melbourne Olympic Games in 1956.

Steve Price says: “Stan was the man responsible for getting behind dozens of singers and starting them with their careers.

“I did just on 80 shows with Stan and found him to be one

of life’s genetlemen. I will be playing some of the singers’ songs and we will also talk with some of his friends.”

Casey FM can be heard locally in Melbourne’s southeast. It is also streamed live on the internet at www.casey radio.com.au

Bublé guests on Smooth FM ■ Croner Michael Bublé made a guest appearance on Smoth 91.5 FM with Mike Pesro on Monday morning, the first day of the station’s new format.

Bublé is heading the station’s TV commercials, and will appear on the station for eight weeks.

Other hosts include Richard Wilkins, Jason Donovan and David Reyne.

● Michael Bublé

Triple J mag ■ ABC youth network Triple J’s monthly magazine will now be published every second month.

J Mag’s revamped format will launch in late July, and retain music coverage.

Melbourne Radio Flashbacks

WILLIE NELSON’S NEW ALBUM

■ Heroes is the brand new release for country music legend Willie Nelson.

The 14-track CD is a mix of recently composed songs as well as reworked classics.

A few notable (if not surprising) musical guest appearances include Snoop Dogg, Sheryl Crow, Kris Kristofferson and Nelson's sons Lukas and Micah.

- Rob Foenander

r Observbei z Show

Wednesday, May 23 ■ American singer Rosemary Clooney was born in 1928, and died aged 74 in 2002.

British actress Joan Collins was born in London in 1933 (79).

US comedian Drew Carey is 54.

Australian playwright Ray Lawler is 91 (1921).

He was born in Footscray.

● Steve Price of Casey 97.7 FM

● The year was 1964. The Beatles (Ringo, Paul, John and Goerge) came to Melbourne. This photo shows Melbourne radio men interviewing the ‘Fab Four’ at the Southern Cross Hotel. From left, Malcolm Searle, Tony Charlton, Geoff Corke, Geoff Raymond and David Johnston.

Melbourne

Observer

On This Day Thursday, May 24

Friday, May 25

Saturday, May 26

Sunday, May 27

Monday, May 28

Tuesday, May 29

■ Australian operatic singer Dame Joan Hammond was born in New Zealand in 1912. She died aged 84 in 1996.

Australian bushman R M (Reginald Murray) Williams was born in 1908. She died aged 94 in 2003.

Priscilla Presley (nee Wagner) was born in New York in 1945 (67). She and Elvis married in 1967.

■ Comedian Syd Heylen was born in Renmark, SA, in 1923. He died aged 73 in 1996.

Country singer Tom T Hall was born in 1936 (76).

Actor Andrew Clarke was born in Adelaide in 1954 (58).

Actor Mike Myers was born in Ontario in 1963 (49).

■ English music hall performer George Formby was born in Lancashire in 1904.

She died aged 55 in 1961.

Actor John Wayne (Marion Morrison) was born in 1907. He died aged 72 in 1979.

Actor Robert Morley was born in Wiltshire, UK, in 1908. He died in 1992 (84) Actress Helena Bonham Carter is 46 (1966).

■ US actor Vincent Price was born in 1911.

He died aged 82 in 1994.

Sydney TV-radio presenter Mike Gibson is 72.

British singer Cilla Black (Priscilla White) is 69 (1941).

Politician Pauline Hanson is 58 (1954).

Fotballer Wayne Carey is 41 (1971).

■ Actor Patrick White was born in London in 1912. He died aged 78 in 1990.

American singer Gladys King is 68 (1944).

Boxer Jeff Fenech is 48 (1964).

Singer-actress Kylie Minogue was born in Melbourne in 1968 (44).

John Fogarty (Creedence Clearwater Revival) was born in 1945 (67).

■ US President John Fitzgerald Kennedy was born in 1917. He died aged 45 in 1963.

Radio man Stan Zemanek was born in 1947. He died aged 60 in 2007.

Actress Jo Beth Taylor was born in Perth in 1971 (41).

News reader Natarsha Belling is 42.

Thanks to GREG NEWMAN of the Birthday Bulletin for assistance with birthday and anniversary dates.

Find out more at www.birthdaybulletin.com.au

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 23, 2012 - Page 75

Page 76 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 23, 2012

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Observer Showbiz DVD & Blu-Ray Recommendations

● Veteran Oscar winning filmmaker Martin Scorsese in a cameo in his valentine to the movies, Hugo.

FILM: HUGO: Cast: Asa Butterfield, Ben Kingsley, Sacha Baron Cohen, Christopher Lee. Genre: Family/Adventure.

Year: 2011.

Rating: PG. Running Time: 121 Minutes.

Format: DVD, BLU-RAY and BLU-RAY 3D. Stars: ****1/2 Verdict: Veteran Oscar winning filmmaker Martin Scorsese's Valentine to cinema, set in 1930's Paris of an orphan who lives in the walls of a train station and wrapped up in a mystery involving his late father, a robot and pioneering filmmaker Georges Melies, is a beautifully executed, visually stunning, bittersweet journey. The legendary Scorsese's deep passion for the history of cinema is stamped firmly in every frame as the orphaned boy is drawn by innocence on a spectacular adventure into a fantasy world to witness the revolutionary birth of a medium that would captivate and inspire him and the world for generations to come, as the young boy pursues a friendship with a bitter and reclusive old station shop owner with an extraordinary past, a wonderful performance by Ben Kingsley along with Asa Butterfield as the boy. Well deserved Oscar wins for Art Direction, Cinematography, Sound Editing, Sound Mixing and Visual Effects. Enough said, only that there is so much to enjoy here, and unlike any other film in the career of Martin Scorsese this is not just the closest to his heart, it's what makes his heart beat, an exciting, enormously entertaining and unmissable realization of what dreams are made of, like a trip to the moon.

FILM: THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO: Cast: Daniel Craig, Rooney Mara, Christopher Plummer, Steven Berkoff.

Genre: Drama/Mystery/Thriller.

Year: 2011.

Rating: MA15+.

Running Time: 152 Minutes.

Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: ****1/2 Verdict: This big budget Hollywood remake of the 2009 Swedish hit of the same name is a rarity, it is actually better than the original, let's not forget that the classic The Maltese Falcon was the third attempt, and there are many other examples. I must make it very clear though, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo was not remade because the original was a bad film, not at all, it was simply remade for the global English speaking market and the continuing record shattering book sales of author Stieg Larssons literary blockbuster Millennium Trilogy. Skilfully directed by David Fincher (Se7en and Zodiac), and starring Daniel Craig and Rooney Mara, and if you are one of the few who hasn't seen it or read the book, it story of a Journalist who is aided by a young and troubled computer hacker in his search for a woman who has been missing for four decades. This is a thrilling and compelling ride, superbly adapted

by Oscar winning screenwriter Steven Zaillian (Schindler's List, Searching for Bobby Fischer), resulting in a sharper, clearer, atmospheric, engaging and more faithful and respectful adaptation of the book than the original. Whether you have seen the original or are seeing it fresh for the first time, this is a supremely haunting, chilling, challenging, compelling and ambitious cinematic experience.

FILM: THE IRON LADY: Genre: Drama.

Cast: Meryl Streep, Jim Broadbent, Richard E. Grant.

Year: 2011.

Rating: M. Running Time: 105 Minutes.

Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: ** Verdict: Being a cinematic political junkie, I was awaiting the release of The Iron Lady with some anticipation, expecting something in the league of Oliver Stone's JFK or Nixon, after all, Margaret Thatcher's rise to and reign as British Prime Minister was one of the most tumultuous, controversial and compelling journey's in 20th century politics. What was finally unveiled is Meryl Streep giving a haunting and jaw-dropping Oscar winning performance as Margaret Thatcher, but regrettably, the film itself falls short, resembling a political parody of The Ghost and Mrs. Muir, as she continually talks to the imagined presence of her recently deceased husband, resulting in a study with about as much impact and strength as a limp-wristed, lettuce leaf hand-shake. I await your letters. On a more serious note though, as the ailing Margaret Thatcher sadly struggles, trying desperately throughout to come to terms with herself, the film all too often rushes over important issues of her political life, an additional ten or fifteen minutes of material would have made a lot of difference. But what ultimately remains is the feeling of a TV movie with empty and emotionless images of tragically stricken elderly lady of history and not that of The Iron Lady that her title and that of the movie suggests. Please Note: There is a superior BBC mini-series titled The Rise and Fall of Margaret Thatcher available on DVD and worth taking a look at.

- James Sherlock

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 23, 2012 - Page 77

Movies, DVDs

With James Sherlock

Reviews by Aaron Rourke

THE FILMS OF RIDLEY SCOTT ● Ridley Scott (M) (1987). 106 minutes. ***½.

Part 1 (1977-1996) After the big budget Legend failed With director Ridley Scott returning to the Alien uniiverse on June 7 with to attract an audience, Scott helmed the highly-anticipated Prometheus, it is this smaller production, a solid romaninteresting to look back on his body of tic thriller that thankfully still had his work, and how it has broken into two distinctive visual touch. very different halves.

Happily married cop (Tom This week I will look at his first Berenger) is seduced by the high life period , where Scott made a name for of a rich socialite (Mimi Rogers), himself as a world-class film-maker. who is the main witness in an imporAll are available on DVD. tant murder case.

The Duellists (M) (1977). 101 A rather predictable story is elminutes. ****. evated by good performances (espeAfter achieving much success di- cially Rogers) and Scott's intelligent recting commercials and short films, approach.

Ridley Scott made his feature film Black Rain (M) (1989). 126 debut with this lavish period drama minutes. ***½. based on the novel by Joseph Conrad.

Despite a script that offers no surA small argument between two prises (except one), with a story that French officers (played by Harvey goes exactly where you expect it to, Keitel and Keith Carradine) turns this cop action/thriller is thoroughly eninto an obsessive feud which lasts for tertaining, due to the effective use of years. its Japanese setting, Michael DouBeautifully photographed on exquis- glas' vigorous performance, and Ridite locations, Scott was certainly in- ley Scott's excellent directorial work, spired by Stanley Kubrick's Barry giving the film much-needed dramatic Lyndon, made two years earlier. weight. Ken Takakura and Andy Alien (M) (1979). 117 minutes. Garcia also deliver fine work. *****.

Thelma & Louise (M) (1991).

Scott moved from the past and into 128 minutes. ****. the future with this classic sci-fi/horHeady blend of humour and drama ror/thriller, one of the most iconic films features two great performances from in cinema history. stars Geena Davis and Susan Majestic, superbly crafted and ex- Sarandon, a provocative Oscar-wintremely well-acted by a perfectly cho- ning script by Callie Khouri, and posen cast. tent direction by Scott, who manages Blade Runner (M) (1982). 118 to work around the story's more preminutes. *****. dictable elements.

Ridley Scott managed that rare feat This is also the film that put Brad of creating two classic, highly Pitt on the Hollywood map. infuential sci-fi films, the first being 1492 : Conquest Of Paradise Alien, the second being this eye-pop- (M) (1992). 154 minutes. ****. ping look at LA in 2019.

Under-rated historical drama that Still contains some of the best pro- follows the difficult journey of explorer duction design-set decoration ever seen Christopher Columbus (Gerard in a film, with miniature effects work Depardieu), and the many troubles to match. that surrounded his discovery of the A number of versions of this film Americas. exist, including a rather misrepresented One of the most sumptuously Director's Cut in 1993, and then an of- filmed, meticulously detailed films ficial Final Cut in 2007. ever made, this fascinating look at a Legend (PG) (1985). 90 minutes particular part of history is not a com/ 113 minutes. *****. plete success, but the powerful, intoxiCriminally overlooked fantasy/adventure that was a pet project of cating work by Scott and his immensely talented crew, along with a Scott's.

Massive, breathtaking sets, vivid at- large, impressive cast, makes this commosphere, and classic Grimm Tales pelling viewing.

White Squall (M) (1996). 127 characters makes for absorbing viewminutes. ***½. ing.

True story of a group of troubled boys Features an early performance from Tom Cruise, with strong work from who are taught discipline and experiMia Sara (Ferris Bueller's Day Off) ence on a school-orientated ship by and David Bennett (The Tin Drum), their stern captain (Jeff Bridges) and but the film is stolen by Tim Curry his educated colleagues.

Believably told in a measured, styl(The Rocky Horror Picture Show), who is brilliant as the devlish Darkness, ish manner by Scott, with a finale that under some of the most incredible is utterly convincing and harrowing.

The wrongheaded ending unfortumake-up you will ever see.

For years only available in a cut- nately makes this feel like a poor down 90 minute version, the complete man's Dead Poets Society, but the film 113 minute Director's Cut is now avail- deserves to be appreciated in its own able, and is easily the superior version. right.

- Aaron Rourke Someone To Watch Over Me

Melbourne

Observer

Top 10 Lists THE AUSTRALIAN BOX OFFICE TOP TEN: 1. THE AVENGERS. 2. DARK SHADOWS. 3. THE FIVE YEAR ENGAGEMENT. 4. THE BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL. 5. SAFE. 6. THE LUCKY ONE. 7. SALMON FISHING IN THE YEMEN. 8. THE HUNGER GAMES. 9. ACT OF VALOUR. 10. WISH YOU WERE HERE. NEW RELEASES AND COMING SOON TO CINEMAS AROUND AUSTRALIA: MAY 17: THE DICTATOR, OVER THE HILL BAND, SILENT SOULS, WOMAN IN BLACK. MAY 24: BEL AMI, MEN IN BLACK. THE DVD TOP SELLERS: 1. TINKER TAILOR SOLDIER SPY [Drama/Gary Oldman, Colin Firth, Tom Hardy].

2. SHERLOCK HOLMES: A GAME OF SHADOWS [Adventure/Robert Downey Jr, Jude Law].

3. THE MUPPETS [Family/Adventure/Amy Adams, Jason Segal, Chris Cooper].

4. MISSION IMPOSSIBLE: GHOST PROTOCOL [Action/Tom Cruise, Jeremy Renner].

5. THE ADVENTURES OF TIN TIN [Family/Animated/Jamie Bell, Andy Serkis, Daniel Craig].

6. YOUNG ADULT [Drama/Comedy/ Charlize Theron, Patton Oswalt, Patrick Wilson].

7. THE DESCENDANTS [Drama/ Comedy/George Clooney, Amara Miller, Shailene Woodley].

8. WAR HORSE [Drama/War/Jeremy Irvine, Peter Mullan, Emily Watson].

9. TOWER HEIST [Action/Comedy/ Matthew Broderick, Ben Stiller, Casey Affleck, Alan Alda].

10. PUSS IN BOOTS [Animated/ Family/Antonio Banderas, Selma Hayek].

Also: THE IRON LADY, HAPPY FEET TWO, WE BOUGHT A ZOO, THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN Part One, ATTACK THE BLOCK, DRIVE, THE EYE OF THE STORM, MIDNIGHT IN PARIS, MONEYBALL, THE IDES OF MARCH. NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON DVD THIS WEEK: HUGO [Adventure/Asa Butterfield, Christopher Lee, Ben Kingsley].

THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO [Mystery/Thriller/Daniel Craig, Rooney Mara].

JOURNEY 2: MYSTERIOUS ISLAND [Adventure/Comedy/Dwayne Johnson, Michael Caine].

ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: CHIPWRECKED [Family/Animated/ Jason Lee].

A LONELY PLACE TO DIE [Thriller/ Melissa George, Sean Harris, Karel Roden].

THE SKIN I LIVE IN [Drama/Foreign/ Antonio Banderas, Elena Anaya].

A FEW BEST MEN [Comedy/Olivia Newton-John, Kris Marshall, Rebel Wilson].

NEW & RE-RELEASE CLASSICS ON DVD HIGHLIGHTS: PRINCE VALIANT [Drama/Janet Leigh, Robert Wagner, James Mason, Sterling Hayden].

BLACK SHIELD OF FALWORTH [Drama/Janet Leigh, Tony Curtis].

Turn To Page 83

Page 78 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 23, 2012 Melbourne

Observer

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Lovatts Crossword No 21 Across

Across

Down

Down

1. Seaside walkway 6. Pouch 11. Brief sharp pain 15. Most cheerful 20. Naming word 21. Chicken breed, ... Island Red 22. Nominate 23. Behind bars 25. Active 26. Indian port, now Chennai 27. Moves closer to 29. Infuriates 32. Unaccompanied 34. Hair dye 36. The N of UN 39. Firmly cooked (of pasta), al ...

41. Of punishment 43. WWII German sub (1-4) 46. Church passage 48. Tin or lead 49. Spy, ... Hari 51. Fulfil (demand) 52. Upsetting 55. US university 56. Shoe cord 59. Follows orders 61. Friar 62. Sports day 63. Britain's Scilly ...

64. Afternoon performance 67. Mythical horned horse 68. US property agent 70. Lunatic 71. Landlord's income 72. Weather map line 73. Lady's title 74. Send (cash) 75. Most avid 77. Anticipate 78. Days & ...

79. Flee 82. Painters' stands 86. Boredom 87. Long time 89. Austrian alpine flower 92. Children 94. Escapade 96. Luncheon meat 98. Identical sibling 100. Laughing scavenger 101. ... & evens 103. Fasten (envelope) 105. Civic 106. Finished 108. Number of cat's lives 111. Dig for minerals 112. Exclusive group members 114. Lampoon 116. Vow 119. Filled tortilla 120. Scottish valley 121. Exercise club 123. Incursion 124. Lambs' mothers 125. Straggler (4-5) 126. Self-sustaining environment 127. Sect, Hare ...

130. Olympic Games body (1,1,1) 131. Talk at incessantly 135. Nude 138. Brazilian soccer hero 139. Rugged peak 141. Grind (teeth) 144. A great deal of 146. In the manner of (1,2) 147. Flying saucers (1,1,2) 148. Through 149. Executive jet 150. Swine enclosure 151. Flog 152. Dictator, Adolf ...

153. Eyelid swelling 155. Ayes & ...

157. Wattle tree 158. Shafts of light 160. ... & lows 161. For a specific purpose (2,3) 162. Henry VIII royal house 163. Kon-Tiki's captain, ... Heyerdahl 165. Bride's partner 166. Immense period 167. Irish organisation (1,1,1)

168. Seance board 169. Climate feature, El ...

171. Argentina's Buenos ...

172. Struck with leg joint 175. Relationship (3-2) 176. Wading bird 179. Carrot colour 180. Middling (2-2) 182. ... spumante 184. Coaches (team) 185. Bright (future) 186. Unhappy 188. Unfluctuating 189. Earthenware cup 190. Owl call 191. Yuck!

193. Cover with gold 194. Bind with string 196. Cold meats & cheeses shop 197. Cash advance 198. Fully satisfies 200. On end 205. Named before marriage 207. Damsels 210. Mouth organ 211. Femur 212. Actress, ... Thompson 213. Anti-attacker spray 214. Gambling city, ... Vegas 216. Street 218. Fabled whale, ... Dick 219. Breakfast or dinner 220. Insignificant people 224. Excessive self-love 227. Rock band, Manfred ...

229. Hand (out) 230. Give off 231. Money resources 232. Dork 233. Slog 235. Extremely 237. Ruminate 239. Knuckle of veal stew, ... bucco 241. Perfume, ... toilette (3,2) 244. Lads 246. Size 249. Infant's carriage 252. Eminent 254. Birthplace of St Francis 256. Canada's capital 258. Hillocks 259. Baby's skin problem, ... rash 260. Licence update 263. Shopping binge 264. Spoof 265. Formed a crowd 267. Russian newspaper 270. Strangely beautiful 271. Exhausting supply of (5,2) 272. Red-nosed reindeer 273. Deliberately sink 274. Greek fable teller 277. As well 279. Ancient Peruvian 281. Hum tunelessly 284. Ukraine capital 286. Captures (criminal) 288. Rousing (speech) 292. Mongrel 294. Writer, ... Blyton 295. Uncensored 298. Milk coffee style 300. Knight's charger 301. Tapering fruit 303. Noblemen 306. Priest's lectures 308. Barrier across stream 309. Head cook 311. More briny 314. Recycle 315. Hammered (in) 316. Perspiration-soaked 317. Spanish friend 318. Crazy 319. Knowledge tests 320. Dedicatory poems 321. Suffering optical defect (5-4) 322. Shelters from sun 323. Promise 324. Moderated (5,4)

1. Prudish 2. Had to repay 3. Reception host 4. Acute anxiety 5. Manage, make ... meet 6. Young hen 7. Vegetable, spring ...

8. Moscow citadel 9. Sample (3,3) 10. Hollywood legend, Marilyn ...

11. Attracts 12. NC US state 13. Tiny insects 14. Readily 15. Dollar division 16. Silly 17. Macaroni or spaghetti 18. European currency unit 19. Ones & ...

24. The A of AD 28. In proportion, pro ...

30. Saudi native 31. June 6, 1944 (1-3) 33. First batsman 35. More orderly 37. Misfortunes 38. Kind 40. Sending via Internet 42. Take on 44. Cook in juices 45. On dry land 47. Eskimo hut 48. Became gentler 49. Latter-day Saints follower 50. Youths 53. Lurked 54. Kindles 57. German shepherd dogs 58. Admires 60. Spruce (up) 63. Crossly 65. High cards 66. Conger fish 68. Metal track 69. Neglect 76. Young paper seller 79. Extrasensory perception (1,1,1) 80. Fast-moving celestial body 81. Bursts (of laughter) 83. Royal racecourse 84. Come in 85. Slide on snow 88. Vital 90. Large birds 91. Taverns 93. Furthest inside 95. Chinese city, Hong ...

97. Utterly stupid 99. Penned 100. Principal 102. River-mouth triangle 104. Directed 107. LP material 109. Uproar 110. Set of two 111. Lowing sounds 113. Most shipshape 115. Discrepancy 117. Thyme or coriander 118. Minus 121. Mourned 122. Assembly toy kit 127. Cambodian communist group, ...

Rouge 128. Irritated (of skin) 129. Carelessly 132. Magician's chant 133. God of Islam 134. Author, Georgette ...

135. Most slender 136. Nepal's capital 137. Work clothes 138. Had 140. Pregnancy 141. Slopes

142. Space traveller 143. Bulb flowers 145. Study of past events 151. Apt 154. Tugs sharply 156. Corrosive fluids 159. Boxer, Muhammad ...

164. French yes 169. Suckle 170. Snooped 173. Token (fee) 174. Baby eagles 177. Pop song's flip (1-4) 178. Mixer drinks 181. Former (3-4) 183. Defrosting 187. Great foe 192. Alternator 195. Writers 199. Is plentiful 201. Unfeeling 202. Impact sound 203. Climb 204. Sydney surf beach 206. Bell 207. Florida resort 208. Condemn to hell 209. Pen tips 213. ... & papa 215. Greed 217. Up hill & down ...

221. Premonitions 222. News stories 223. Polluted air 224. Jacob's Old Testament twin 225. Start (of illness) 226. Scent 228. Romanticise 234. Flattery 236. Summary 238. The States (1,1,1) 240. Jet-bubble bath 242. Joined 243. Cheap-rate time (3-4) 245. Antagonist 247. Parachute delivery 248. Playful marine mammal 250. Remove (limb) 251. Prepared mentally, ... up 253. Speaks 255. Trade 257. Banknote bundles 258. Ship's bottom 261. Naturist 262. Rhyme, Wee ... Winkie 265. Mutter 266. Fissure 268. Paris landmark, ... Triomphe (3,2) 269. Charge with offence 275. Irish Republic 276. Single egg cell 278. Sniffed 280. Brothers' sons 282. Repose 283. Longest river 285. Pimples 287. Holy people 289. Stage whispers 290. Mariner 291. Black Sea port 292. Dr Jekyll's alter ego (2,4) 293. Pull heavily 296. Standards 297. Illegal moneylending 299. Garbage 302. Performer 304. From India or China 305. Composer, Andrew ... Webber 306. As a gamble, on ...

307. Nevada quickie divorce city 308. Weave (one's way) 310. Shun food 312. Towards centre of 313. Wet weather

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, - Page y, May 23, 2012 , g 79

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www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Page 80 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Observer Showbiz AUDITIONS ■ Altona City Theatre: Sweeney Todd May 24, 27 at the Hobsons Bay Community Workshop, 280 Queen St., Altona.

Director: Dean Mitchelmore; Musical Director: Ian Nisbet.

Audition bookings: 9398 5508.

■ Croydon Parish Players: HMS Pinafore May 28, 29 at the Croydon Uniting Church Hall, Tallent St., Croydon. Director: Phillip Crompton: Musical Director: Andrea Crompton. Enquiries: cromptstar@aanet.com.au ■ Strathmore Theatrical Arts Group (STAG): Doubt (by John Patrick Shanley) June 3 at 6.00pm and June 4 at 7.00pm at the Strathmore Community Hall, Loeman St., Strathmore.

Director: Mel de Bono. Audition bookings: 9467 1502.

■ The Basin Theatre Group: Over My Dead Body June 13 at 7.30pm at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin.

Director: Joe Tuppenney. Audition enquiries: 8711 3076.

SHINY STOCKINGS BALL

● Frankie Manning and Ann Johnson in 1941 ■ A celebration of the life and work of the late Frank Manning will be presented at The Shiny Stockings Ball on Saturday (May 26) at the Thornbury Theatre, 859 High St., Thornbury.

New York City Lindy Hop and authentic jazz dancer Ramona Staffeld, now living in Melbourne, says she knew Frank personally as a friend and teacher.

“This is a tribute to the legendary swing dancer who is responsible for a global swing dance revival. The 1930s and 40s was the time when swing was all the rage – and it still is!”

A true ambassador of Lindy Hop, Frank Manning inspired thousands of people in his lifetime to get up and social dance with a partner. As a self-taught dancer, Frank started dancing as a young teenager in Harlem, USA. In 1935 he invented the first air step, winning a prestigious competition at the legendary Savoy Ballroom when he flipped his partner over his back, landing when Chick Webb hit his cymbal.

The same year, a local business man and bouncer at the ballroom created a professional performance group called Whitey’s Lindy Hoppers and soon they were touring the world, including Australia in 1938.

Frankie also choreographed for Hollywood movies and performed with Duke Ellington, Billy Holiday, Count Basie and many more.

Later in life Frankie won a Tony Award for his work on the hit Broadway show Black n’ Blue and co-wrote Frankie Manning, Ambassador of Lindy Hop with Cynthia Millman.

Frankie danced and taught until the age of 94, still touring the world teaching until a few months before he passed in 2009.

Step back in time on Saturday when doors open at 7.30pm.

The movie starts at 8pm after which the swinging sounds of Andy Swann and his little big band will jazz the night away.

To top it all off, Frankie’s son Chazz Young will be in from Las Vegas as guest of honour.

Tickets: $40 in advance or $45 at the doors. For more information and bookings: www.swingpatrol.com or thethornburytheatre.com

Local Theatre With Cheryl Threadgold

Melbourne

Observer

‘MISS SAIGON’ AT WHITEHORSE SHOWS ■ Nova Music Theatre: Miss Saigon Until May 26 at the Whitehorse Centre, 397 Whitehorse Rd., Nunawading. Director: Noel Browne; Musical Director: John Clancy; Choreographer: Wayne Robinson. Bookings: www.novamusictheatre.com.au or 1300 305771.

■ The Basin Theatre Group: Bullshot Crummond Until June 3, Thurs - Sat at 8.00pm, Sun at 2.00pm at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin. Director: Cameron South. Tickets: $22 (incl. program, refreshments, supper, parking). Bookings: 1300 784 668 (7-9pm only) or www.thebasintheatre.org.au ■ Torquay Theatre Troupe: Rabbit Hole (by David Lindsay Abaire) Until May 26 at 16 Price St., Torquay. Director: Gay Bell.

Tickets: $19/$15. Bookings: 5261 9035.

■ Mansfield Music and Drama Society: Footloose the Musical Until May 26 at the Performing Arts Centre, View St., Mansfield. Director: Michael Isbister. Tickets: $20/$15. Bookings: 0413 740069.

■ Mornington CEF Players: Cosi (by Louis Nowra) Until May 27 at Bellamy Hall, Albert St., Mornington. Directors: Mike Fletcher and Cameron Sweatman. Tickets: $20/$17/$14. Bookings: 5975 5904. www.cefplayers.com.au ■ Warragul Theatre Company: Carmen - The musical, Until May 26 at the West Gippsland Arts Centre. Director: Michelle Carrigy; Musical Director: David Williams; Choreographer: Emmalee Meisels. Bookings: 5624 2456 www.wgac.org.au ■ 1812 Theatre: I Hate Hamlet (by Paul Rudnick) May 24 June 16 at 3-5 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: John Mills.

Tickets: $25. Bookings: 9758 3964 or www.1812theatre.com.au ■ Brighton Theatre Company: Three Days of Rain (by Richard Greenberg) May 24 - June 9 at Brighton Theatre, Cnr. Wilson and Carpenter Sts., Brighton. Director: Doug Bennett. Tickets: $20/$18. Bookings: 1300 752 126 www.brightontheatreco.com ■ Moreland Theatre Company: Twelfth Night (by William Shakespeare) May 24 - June 2 at the Mechanics Institute, 270 Sydney Rd., Brunswick. Director: Sam Browne. Tickets: $20/$15. www.moreland.org.au ■ Phoenix Theatre Company: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum May 25 - June 2 at the Doncaster Playhouse.

Director/Choreographer: Renee Maloney; Musical Director: Katie Packer. All tickets: $28. Bookings: www.phoenixtheatre company.org/ ■ The Mount Players: Oklahoma! May 25 - June 16 at 56 Smith St., Macedon. Directors: Peter Kelly and Olivia Kelly. Tickets: $25/$22. Bookings: 1300 463 224. www.themountplayers.com ■ Werribee Theatre Company: Busybody (by Jack Popplewell) May 25 - June 2 at the Crossroads Theatre, Cnrs. Synnot St and Duncans Rd., Werribee. Tickets: $20. Bookings: 0401 800 196 www.werribeetheatrecompany.org.au ■ Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company: MASH May 30 - June 16 at 39-41 Castella St., Lilydale. Director: Adrian Carr.

Tickets: $25/$22. Bookings: 9735 1777 www.lilydaleatc.com ■ Swan Hill Theatre Group: Oliver! May 31 - June 16 at the McCrae St. Theatre, Swan Hill. Director: Nikki Holt. Evening performances: 7.30pm, matinee at 2.00pm. Bookings: 0438 006274.

Cheryl Threadgold on 3AW ■ Non-Pro Theatre columnist Cheryl Threadgold is heard weekly on 3AW Melbourne Overnight program hosted by Andrew McLaren. Cheryl presents a segment with the latest community theatre news at 12.45am Wednesdays.

INDEPENDENT THEATRE

Robot vs Art ■ La Mama Courthouse presents Robot vs Art from May 31 – June 10 When robots decree planet earth will not survive unless human beings are destroyed, they execute 90 per cent of them and send the rest to underground sustainable mines.

Under their reign, robots cease all industry and implement new systems to assure they can live on earth forever.

Robots take all the art out of galleries and start living in them, as the buildings are human beings’ most ergonomic work.

It is only when Executive Producer Master Bot writes a play, that a human playwright/director, Giles, is sent up from the mines in the hope that robots will begin to understand the formula of art.

Because Executive can’t feel, he can’t enjoy art, so he makes a deal with Giles: If Giles is capable of putting on a play that can make robots feel, he will let him live. But if he can’t, he will be executed in front of his cast.

Written and directed by Travis Cotton, Robot vs Art will be performed by Daniel Frederiksen, Simon Maiden, Natasha Jacobs and Paul Goddard.

Season: May 31 – June 10, Times: Wed, Sun 6.30pm , Thu, Fri, Sat 7.30pm Venue: La Mama Courthouse, 349 Drummond St., Carlton.

Tickets: $25 Full, $15 Concession Bookings: www.lamama.com.au or 9347 6142 Running time: 90 minutes

What Is The Question?

■ As a further development of the work presented as part of La Mama’s 2011 Explorations Season, a new work, What is the Question?, is being presented from May 30 to June 10 at La Mama Theatre, 205 Faraday St, Carlton.

What is the Question? is a new work building on the body of non-text based theatre that Lloyd Jones has developed at La Mama over the past four decades.

In this work, Lloyd and his large ensemble cast explore the notion of power play and abuse, revenge and counter revenge, unrepentance and remorse, and of making up answers and then finding the question.

What is the Question? delves implicitly into the concept that it’s too late once it’s done and cracks open common idioms by asking the audience not to cry over spilled beans and not to hatch their chickens before they are laid.

The production is devised, designed and directed by Lloyd Jones in collaboration with JoAnne Armstrong, Pippa Bainbridge, Jessica Cherry, Cory Corbett, Tim Ferris, Greg Fryer, Maureen Hartley, Justine Jansz, Liz Jones, Chris Molyneux, Peter Murphy, Elnaz Sheshgelani, Raymond Triggs, Germaine Wattis and Scott Welsh Tickets: $25 Full, $15 Concession Bookings: www.lamama.com.au 9347 6142 Season: May 30 – June 10, Wed, Sun 6.30pm, Thu, Fri, Sat 7.30pm Running time: 60 minutes Venue: La Mama Theatre, 205 Faraday St., Carlton.

MORNING MELODIES GOES TO THE BALLET

■ Ballet lovers will have the opportunity to see the future stars of the international ballet world in the next Morning Melodies show at the State Theatre, Arts Centre, on Tuesday May 29 at 11am and 1.30 pm.

The famed Australian Ballet School will be presenting a showcase of classical works, including Les Sylphides, with music

by Chopin, Grande Tarantelle, to music by Gottschalk and contemporary composer Jiri Kylian's creation Symphony in D, set to Joseph Haydn's famous Symphony no 101, The Clock and his Symphony no 72, The Hunt.

Tickets are only $19 for a trip to the world of first class ballet, as many of the Australian Ballet School dancers go on to careers with the Australian Ballet and famous overseas companies.

In fact, the two lead dancers pictured with the company in their days at the Australian Ballet School are Stephanie Williams, who is now dancing with the American Ballet Theatre, and Ty King-Wall, who is now a Senior Artist with the Australian Ballet!

● Ty King-Wall and Stephanie Williams www.artscentremelbourne.com.au or 1300 182 183 - Julie Houghton

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 23, 2012 - Page 81

Melbourne Buying Guide

Page 82 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 23, 2012

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 23, 2012 - Page 83

Melbourne

Observer Victorian Sport

Showbiz Extra ■ From Page 77

INJURED JOCKEYS BATTLE ■ Some of our young jockeys haven't much luck of late, with the latest to suffer bad injuries is Michelle Payne, who had a bad fall at Donald when her mount, El Devine, evidently got his legs crossed after leaving the barrier.

She was thrown very heavily to the turf, and sustained some bad injuries.

Michelle will rest at least another five weeks, and then will go into rehabilitation for another six weeks, depending on how quickly she recovers.

Victorian Jockeys Chief Executive Des O'Keefe told me that she sustained a fractured five vertebrae, and on top of this suffered broken ribs, a bruised face and upper body.

Des added that all vertebrae are in perfect alignment. There's no displacement.

Although she will be sick and sorry for a while, it could have been a lot worse for the talented rider.

The latest on Louise Cooper, another young rider, only 32, who has a young family, also had a bad fall at Edenhope, and in the seven weeks since, she still has no feeling from the waist down.

The National Jockey Trust is helping with great support to her husband and family.

Louise is at the Talbot Rehabilitation Centre; let's hope she can regain some feeling in her legs in ensuring months.

Ted Ryan

Another jockey in the wars is Matt Pumpa, who recently had a bad fall at trackwork; sustaining a broken hip and is likely to be out for another six months.

It is only recently that Darren Gauci resumed after a shocking fall at Mornington; but has bounced back with a few winners since.

Another leading rider who has gone through some trying times after falling very heavily at Moonee Valley in July two years ago is coming along slowly.

Danny Brereton sustained some bad injuries, but is fighting hard and is walking better each day.

Danny has a great family behind him and his son, Darcy, is on

the horizon of becoming a top golfer, so Danny will get plenty of exercise, walking the courses when right.

Another top rider who has been off the scene now for some 15 months is veteran jockey, Neville Wilson, who suffered neck fractures in a bad fall, and has been battling to get back to race riding.

Des O'Keefe said the 66 year-old is keen to return to the saddle, but has to get a clearance from his doctor and the Racing Victoria Executive.

We wish them all well. It's incredible when you think of it, they average about 54 kilos in weight, with the girls much less, but they are able to control an animal that weights an average 500 kilos, and a lot of top gallopers race at their top round 60 kilometres an hour.

All they have protect them is a vest and a skull cap.

Removal of blinkers

● Neville Wilson Photo by SLICKPIX, phone 9354 5754

■ Victorian Racing Stewards have issued a reminder that the practice of removing blinkers from under the bridle in the mounting yard is no longer permitted, unless permission is granted by the Stewards.

This practice is considered to be unsafe.

This practice is no longer permitted anywhere in Australia.

Observer Racing

In the jockeys’ room ■ All riders are reminded of their obligations under the provisions of rule AR.91 that states that any rider who has a riding engagement at any race meeting shall be present in the jockeys' room no later than 45 minutes before the advertised starting time for the first race in which he or she has a riding engagement.

Jockeys, unless permitted by the stewards, must remain in the jockeys' room until all riding engagements have been completedafter which jockeys must seek the permission of the Stewards to leave the jockeys' room.

Riders shall not leave the confines of the jockeys' room or mounting enclosure, or communicate with the general public without gaining the permission of the stewards and signing the raceday arrival and departure register.

Another must for jockeys, is that they

● Michelle Payne Photo by SLICKPIX, phone 9354 5754 have to leave their mo- foals in her breeding bile phones with the career, at a conservaStewards before riding tive value of $500,000 that day. a foal, she has a breeding-career-return of around $5 million, less costs of service fees which would be close to $ 200,000 per foal.

■ Some interesting ■ Net profit on breedstats came to light in ing is $ 3 million. the recent edition of In- ■ Of course that's not side Racing. counting racetrack Referring to the pur- earnings and the cost of chase of the half sister training. to Black Caviar, who Of course you have was purchased for $2.6 the odds on your side million at the Easter with the filly being by Yearling Sales at top sire, Redoute's Newmarket, in Choice.

Sydney.

I wouldn't mind havWhere the profit ing a share in the classy may lie in Black looking filly, but missCaviar's half-sister- ing out on the $70 mil■ Yearling value, $2.6 lion in Tattslotto, I million (auction price). will just have to wait ■ If she retires my turn, if it ever unraced or a winner of comes. a minor race, her value will drop to around $ 1 million.

■ If she wins a Listed, Group 3, or Group 2 race, her value will hold at her yearling sale price, because that's the expectation of her new owners for her at the time of purchase.

■ If she wins a Group 1 race, her value will skyrocket to at least double her purchase price $ 5 million, plus.

■ Allowing for 10

Interesting statistics

Don’t miss Harry Beitzel’s analysis: P86

Top 10 Lists NEW RELEASE TELEVISION, DOCUMENTARY AND MUSIC DVD HIGHLIGHTS: TRUE BLOOD: The Complete 4th Season.

BOBBY FISCHER AGAINST THE WORLD {Documentary].

BIG LOVE: Season 5.

TOP BLU-RAY SELLERS: 1. TINKER TAILOR SOLDIER SPY [Drama/Gary Oldman, Colin Firth, Tom Hardy].

2. SHERLOCK HOLMES: A GAME OF SHADOWS [Adventure/Robert Downey Jr, Jude Law].

3. THE MUPPETS [Family/Adventure/Amy Adams, Jason Segal, Chris Cooper].

4. WAR HORSE [Drama/War/Jeremy Irvine, Peter Mullan, Emily Watson].

5. YOUNG ADULT [Drama/Comedy/Charlize Theron, Patton Oswalt, Patrick Wilson].

6. MISSION IMPOSSIBLE: GHOST PROTOCOL [Action/Tom Cruise, Jeremy Renner].

7. THE ADVENTURES OF TIN TIN - 3D & 2D Blu-ray [Family/Animated].

8. THE DESCENDANTS [Drama/Comedy/George Clooney, Amara Miller, Shailene Woodley].

9. PUSS IN BOOTS 2D, 3D + DVD [Animated/ Family/Antonio Banderas, Selma Hayek].

10. TOWER HEIST [Action/Comedy/Matthew Broderick, Ben Stiller, Casey Affleck, Alan Alda].

Also: We Bought a Zoo, The Iron Lady, Happy Feet Two, The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part One, Drive, Attack The Block, Midnight in Paris, The Ides of March, Moneyball, The Eye of the Storm.

NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON BLU-RAY THIS WEEK: HUGO [Adventure/Asa Butterfield, Christopher Lee, Ben Kingsley].

HUGO-3D [Adventure/Asa Butterfield, Christopher Lee, Ben Kingsley].

THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO [Mystery/ Thriller/Daniel Craig, Rooney Mara].

JOURNEY 2: MYSTERIOUS ISLAND [Adventure/ Comedy/Dwayne Johnson, Michael Caine].

JOURNEY 2: MYSTERIOUS ISLAND-3D [Adventure/Comedy/Dwayne Johnson, Michael Caine].

ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: CHIPWRECKED [Family/Animated/Jason Lee].

A LONELY PLACE TO DIE [Thriller/Melissa George, Sean Harris, Karel Roden].

PRINCE VALIANT [Drama/Janet Leigh, Robert Wagner, James Mason, Sterling Hayden].

BLACK SHIELD OF FALWORTH [Drama/Janet Leigh, Tony Curtis].

A FEW BEST MEN [Comedy/Olivia NewtonJohn, Kris Marshall, Rebel Wilson].

- James Sherlock

Kelly Clarkson at Deni ■ Kelly Clarkson is set to headline the 2012 line-up at the Deni Ute Muster.

John Harvie, Festival Director, says he is over the moon to be welcoming Kelly to the stage this year.

“Kelly is an amazing performer and a genuine crowd pleaser. We’re thrilled to be welcoming her to the muster, and to Deni.”

In a story about Mr Know It All, the first single off Kelly Clarkson’s new album Stronger, Entertainment Weekly calls the multi-platinum singer and songwriter “the samurai of shooting guys down.”

Clarkson has earned herself millions of devoted fans thanks to her feisty, straight-talking lyrics.

Clarkson’s hits such as Miss Independent, Since U Been Gone,Walk Away,Never Again, and now Mr Know It All, are bold empowerment anthems, which she sells to the fullest with her soulful, powerhouse voice and down-to-earth relatability.

Kelly’s acclaimed career took off after winning the inaugural American Idol competition in 2002.

Her first album was released in 2003, and now, five albums and countless top-ten hits later, Kelly continues to wow crowds.

Part of Kelly’s appeal is her ability to cross over. Her vocal range is outstanding, and her style isn’t easy to pigeon hole. In fact, she became the first ever artist to top the Billboard Hot 100 in the Country Songs, Adult Contemporary, Adult Pop Songs and Dance/ Club Play Songs charts, no mean feat considering the divergent audiences these categories appeal to.

Page 84 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 23, 2012

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne

Observer Victorian Sport Racing Briefs

In fine form at Hamilton ■ Comadai trainer Steve Zammit has 7-Y-0 Island Fantasy/Happy Vision gelding Lota Vision racing in fine form at present and brought up two wins in succession by taking the Hamilton Sign C0 Pace for C4 & C5 class over 2160 metres at Hamilton on Monday.

Driven by Brian Gath, Lota Vision possied three back in the running line from gate five, gaining a three wide trail home in the last lap trailing Stephs Caesar from last.

Taken wide on straightening, Lota Vision ran home strongly to score from Wheatsheaf Avaball and Cloncullen which led in a rate of 1-58.7.

Alight with a rush ■ Long time harness participant Danny Curran made the long trek to Hamilton on Monday a successful one, as his home bred 4-Y-0 Modern Art/ Ginger Rose gelding Canny Danny scored in the Hamilton Spectator Pace for C0 class over 2160 metres.

Driven by Scott Dyer, Canny Danny trained by Danny in Marong, was given plenty of time to find his feet from gate two, settling well back in the running line, with the well supported Dutton Way drawn next to him leading.

Set alight with a rush three wide racing for the bell, Canny Danny couldn't head off the leader, racing outside him for the final lap.

Showing great tenacity on straightening, Canny Danny proved too strong over the concluding stages for Pleasedtobetibet (three back the markers) and Dutton Way in a rate of 2-03.

Eased three wide ■ Nagambie's Chris Lang (Jnr) has 9-Y-0 Sundon/Kwik Kiss gelding Sun Samurai racing extremely well of late and greeted the judge with him in the Skyvalley Sprint Lane Trotters Handicap for T1 or better class over 2190 metres at Maryborough on Wednesday in a rate of 2-04.1.

Coming from the 30 metre mark, Sun Samurai settled four back in the moving lane, before easing three wide to commence a forward move in the final circuit.

When the roughie Starlight Baron came out ahead of him, Sun Samurai had to be taken four wide approaching the home turn, dashing to the front on turning to register a nice performance in accounting for the roughie Le Chabanais along the sprint lane from three back the markers and Confused Superstar (one/three last lap) who was having his first start for the Conroy stable.

Badly held up ■ Woorndoo trainer Bob Mahncke combined with Daryl Douglas to land the Ace Radio 3HA/Mixx FM Pace for C0 class (mares) over 2160 metres at Hamilton on Monday with the trotter Another Clare.

Settling mid-field from gate three on the second line, Another Clare (Keystone Crosby/Sister Clare) was badly held up in the final circuit, but when extricated wide on the track on straightening, ran home at a great rate to score by a half neck over Vee Jay Jazz along the sprint lane off the back of the leader One Track Mind in a rate of 2-02.

It was Another Clare's eighth victory in 46 starts.

This Week’s Meetings ■ Wednesday - Wedderburn@Maryborough/ Ballarat, ■ Thursday - Warragul/Bendigo, ■ Friday - Melton Double Header, ■ Saturday - Shepparton, ■ Sunday - Terang, ■ Monday - Charlton.

Horses To Follow ■ Mighty Boy Coconut, Mark Dennis, Real Performer, Lovem And Leavem, Palais Du Louve, Confused Superstar, Absolootmagic, Exciteusinthecity.

TEARS OF JOY AT MELTON ■ The tears of emotion and elation were hard to hold back for the connections of Adelaide visitor Come On Frank, when he scored his biggest career success - the $100,000 (Group 1) Empire Stallions Vicbred Super Series Final for Four Year Old Entires and Geldings over 2240 metres at Tabcorp Park Melton on Friday.

Trained and driven by former bank manager Darren Billinger, Come On Frank began better than ever from gate two, tackling the polemarker Ronald George to assume control heading into the back straight on the first occasion, but not before using plenty of gas to do so.

Not wanting to get into another war with the favourite Jadahson (gate three) going forward three wide, Billinger relented to allow Jadahson to stride clear which ended up a great move as Jadahson was subject to plenty of pressure throughout the event by Cut For An Ace. Using the sprint lane, Come On Frank a gelded son of Blissful Hall and Whatacorka raced clear in the shadows of the post to score by 3.2 metres in a rate of 1-58.6 (last half 56.2 - quarter 28.3) from Jadahson, with Keayang Cullen coming from from last at the bell to finish a further 3.8 metres away in third place.

Raced by breeder Ian Goddard in partnership with Julie and Jodie Billinger (Darren's wife and daughter), Come On Frank who has his own Facebook page with a world wide following, chalked up his 25th victory at start number 46.

Darren wasn't happy with the way the horse handled the track in last week's semi-final and took him to the Melton trials last Monday for further experience which obviously paid off.

It has been well documented that the Billinger's eldest daughter Kelly was tragically killed in a road accident 13 months ago and Come On Frank races in her memory.

Jump for joy ■ Popular Miners Rest trainer Janine Pitt would have been "jumping for joy" when her Fully Loaded/ Truly Goldie 6-Y-0 mare Dance With Mia finally broke her maiden status at start number 56, by taking out the AvocaMaryborough Bendigo Bank Pace for C0 class over 2190 metres at Maryborough on Wednesday.

Baker’s Delight

Harness Racing

Flew away from gate

Melbourne

Observer

lenbaker@ bigpond.net.au

with Len Baker

Driven by Greg Sugars, Dance With Mia raced by Janine in partnership with mother Margaret Hucker starting from the pole possied three back along the markers, with Pacific Alice leading from gate three.

Using the sprint lane on turning, Dance With Mia ran home best to score from the pacemaker in 2-03.4, with Superbarby third after following the winner all of the way.

Sprint lane ■ Youthful Bolinda based concessional reinsman Josh Duggan produced the ‘drive of the night’ aboard 4-Y-0 Flight N Irish/Blueberry Kiss gelding Paros Wallet for Strathfieldsaye trainer Glenn Douglas to land the Moama Bowling Club Pace for C1 class over 2160 metres at Echuca on Tuesday, May 15.

Settling three back the markers from inside the second line, Patos Wallet moved to be three back in the moving line racing into the final circuit.

Switching down to trail the leader Falcon Doors approaching the home turn, Patos Wallet first up since February, used the sprint lane to perfection, racing clear in the shadows of the post to gain the day in advance of the pacemaker, with Venus Williams third after racing in the open. The mile rate 202.

Final leg ■ Popular Elmore trainer Frank Barac knocked quaddie punters for a six after winning the final leg - the Jack Hunter Memorial Pace for C4 to C6 class over 2160 metres at Frank Ryan Raceway Echuca with $26.10 chance Madam Altissimo who turned in a best ever performance.

A 5-Y-0 daughter of Blissful Hall and Classic Rain, Madam

Altissimo is usually a front of the field runner, however on this occasion from gate five was eased to the back half of the field with only Modern Warrior (gate six) behind her.

Easing wide to follow Giveusagrin (one/one), Ringwraith (one/two) and Modern Warrior home, Madam Altissimo when taken to the extreme outside on turning by reinsman David Moran, motored home at 100 miles an hour to blouse the leader and favourite Wunlastchance by 1.7 metres in a rate of 2-00.1, with Modern Warrior third.

It was Madam Altissimo's 6th victory in 51 outings.

Auzzie Rose ■ Six year old Conch Deville/Keyrani mare Auzzie Rose snared the Choice Hotels Trotters Handicap for T0 or better class over 2530 metres at Echuca thanks to a daring and dashing drive by Daryl Douglas.

Raced by the Bendigo based Harness Racing Industry Training Centre Board Of Management and trained at Lord's Raceway Bendigo by Roma Pocock and students, Auzzie Rose bred

by Chairman Steve Warren assumed control from the 10 metre mark shortly after the start, with Douglas adopting "catch me if you can" tactics allowing her to run and open up a big gap on her rivals.

Still going strongly approaching the home turn, Auzzie Rose held a commanding lead on straightening and although giving out signs of distress as the winning post came into view (and she was entitled to do so), held on to score by a neck in advance of the 60 metre backmarker Cameos Moment which raced wide in the final circuit, with Abbotshall (one/one last lap) third.

The mile rate 2-07.6.

■ Heywood trainer Kevin Brough is no stranger to Hamilton meetings and snared the Alexandra House Pace for C1 & C2 class (mares) over 1660 metres with bonny 4-Y-0 Rosharni.

Driven by Terang's Matt Craven, Rosharni (Blissful Hall/Summer Fairytale) flew away from gate six to lead and rated to perfection, was never headed in defeating the long odds-on favourite Nightoffire from the local stable of David Lewis which had to face the breeze, with Mosquito Flyer (three wide solo at bell) third. The mile rate 1-58.3.

Gabriel’s first-ever winner ■ There would have been great excitement in the camp of leading trotting stable Chris Lang at Ballarat on Wednesday May 16, as Irish reinsman Gabriel McDonagh attached to the stable, landed his first ever winner from a limited number of drives.

The race was the Snooze Ballarat 3-Y-0 Trotters Handicap over 2200 metres, with the winner being Kadabra/Kyvalley Diva gelding Kyvalley Rap, paying Supertab odds of $19.20.

Given an easy time three back in the moving line from gate six, Kyvalley Rap weaved in-between runners in the last lap to be poised one/one on the final bend as the favourite Rockport Crown one/ one eased three wide ahead of him.

Taken wide on straightening, Kyvalley Rap finished his race off well to score by a half neck over Conartist which trailed the leader and third placegetter Mister Pepe. The mile rate 2-09.4.

Settled for back

■ Bridgewater's Col Redwood (breeder/owner/ trainer) of Pegasus Spur/Miami Spice gelding Brynmor would have been elated when the 4-Y-0 gelding scored in The China Experience Trotters Mobile for T0 & T1 class over 2200 metres at Bray Raceway Ballarat.

Driven by Maryborough based Ash Matthews, Brynmor from inside the second line settled four back in the moving line, with the last start Kilmore winner The Dutchman leading from gate two.

Impeded when the roughie Justachandon ahead of him eased three wide to go knowhere, Brynmor was taken five wide on the final bend, before rushing home at a great rate to score running away in advance of Dartrenzac (one/one) and Alabama Smoken (three back the markers) in a rate of 205.9.

Easy victory at Melton

■ On an outstanding night of racing at Melton on Friday, beautifully bred Artisplace/Jadah Rose colt Guaranteed (Emma Stewart trainer and Chris Alford driver) scored an easy victory in the $50,000 (Group 2) Pegasus Club Tatlow Stakes for 2-Y-0 Colts and Geldings over 2240 metres, leading for the last half of the journey in accounting for Keayang Starzzz which led out before taking a trail and Lennytheshark which faced the breeze for the final circuit. The mile rate 1-59.2.

Two Semi-Finals of the Vicbred Super Series for 4-Y-0 Mares over 2240 metres were held with the winners being Shake It Mama (Mach Three/ Gold Sarn) for Emma Stewart and Chris Alford and Beauty Secret (Armbro Operative/Secret Life) also for Emma Stewart with Daryl Douglas holding the reins.

The $20,000 Metro Printing Melton Pacing Cup for M0 or better class (D-H) over 2760 metres went the way of Bannockburn trainer Geoff Webster's 7-Y-0 Armbro Operative/Kamwood Gal gelding Tear It All Away in a rate of 2-00.8.

Driven by the stable's Emmett Brosnan, Tear It All Away pounced on the lead from barrier four as the tapes were released, before taking a trail inside a lap to stablemate Lets Slash An Burn, one of two 20 metre backmarkers.

Enjoying a cosy trip, Tear It All Away used the sprint lane to perfection in defeating Dominus Vobiscum which followed him throughout, with Lets Slash An Burn third.

A winner of 18 from 89 outings, Tear It All Away took his earnings to $224,639.

- Len Baker

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 23, 2012 - Page 85

Page 86 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 23, 2012

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne

Observer Victorian Sport

IS HONESTY THE BEST POLICY?

■ Does honesty always pay, especially with the current umpires and the way they adjudicate?

It’s a question Magpie Alex Fasolo may well ask after declaring he put it over experienced umpire Mat Stevic (180G10F32yrs) and “milked” a vital 50m penalty.

It occurred with 90 seconds to play and the scores tied on 84 points for a charity goal.

I milked it, Fasolo admits

By Luke Holmesby, AFL Media (Alex see what’s happened to Ballantyne, Milne, Monfries and Stevie J can’t get a free! H) Collingwood forward Alex Fasolo says he was ready to play on and admits he 'milked' the contentious 50m penalty that sealed Collingwood's win over Geelong on Friday night.

Fasolo took a mark 70 metres from goal with scores level and just over a minute remaining on the clock when he was held up by Cats defender Josh Hunt.

The slight contact from Hunt was enough to convince umpire Matt Stevic (180G,10F,32yrs) to blow the whistle and put Fasolo within goal scoring range.

He kicked his third goal of the night to give the Magpies the lead and seal the win for his team.

After the match, the small forward told AFL.com.au he was ready to pass the ball off when he felt the bulky Hunt's arms around him.

"When I marked it I was going to give it to Pendles (Scott Pendlebury) and then I thought, 'Hang on a second, we want to slow this game down'," Fasolo said.

"Then Josh Hunt grabbed me and I milked it for all it was worth. I went back and I was a bit nervous but I slotted it. I couldn't be happier."

But Fasolo insists the infringement was there and Stevic made the right decision.

"He got a good chunk of me and there was plenty of hold. I think there's been plenty of lesser ones that have been given," he said.

Fasolo's opinion was echoed by Geelong coach Chris Scott.

"I'll have to have a good look at it, but my instincts were that it was a free kick," Scott said.

"The rule's pretty clear. If a player plays on but the umpire hasn't called play-on, it's not play-on. Simple."

Luke Holmesby is a reporter for AFL.com.au

Back to the future

■ After Round 7 we knew the competition had evened up. Now we’re not too sure with Collingwood getting revenge over Geelong by two last minute goals but write The Cats off at your own peril.

Port Adelaide’s two-point win over demoralised North Melbourne.

The Hawks demolition of Freo by 56 points, Adelaide on top of the ladder and killing Carlton by 69 points and giving them the real ‘Blues’ while WCE proved too strong for the Saints winning by 5 goals.

Essendon got on top of the Tigers who hit the lead at the 13 minute mark of the 4th qtr to go down by 19 points to signal their genuine improvement’ The remaining games were percent-

Harry Beitzel www.squidoo.com/harrybeitzel age builders for Bulldogs over a better Gold Coast, Swans 101 points victors over miserable Melbourne and Brisbane hitting some form winning by 92 points over GWS. The ladder and therefore the Top 8 looks as though it’s down to 11 teams: Adelaide, Essendon 28pts; Swans, WCE, Magpies 24pts; Hawks, Carlton, Freo 20pts; St Kilda, Geel, Bulldogs 16pts; North, Rich, Bris 12pts; Port Adelaide 8pts; GWS Giants 4pts; Gold Coast Suns, Melbourne 0 points.

Play-on rule after mark is a joke ■ I asked myself why under the control of one and even the two field umpires for over 130 years we never had confusion with the automatic rule ‘of play-on’.

The answer keeps coming back we umpires were not burdened by 1) having to blow the whistle then, 2) call “play-on” and 3) if the player standing the mark knew his opponent was going to ‘play-on’ he had to try and stop him otherwise get abused by his coach.

But now when he instinctively moves on the mark the whistle blows and a 50m penalty applies and many times a vital charity goal ensures.

Today the umpires are “too slow to call ‘play-on’ and ‘too quick to apply a charity 50m penalty’.

Whoever brought in this current ‘play-on’ ruling reverse it so there are no charity goals resulting.

And if there is confusion allow the player in possession to come back to the ‘mark’ and take his kick.

The only group who will be unhappy will be the small number of umpires whose eyes light up with power as they step out the 50 metres.

Swans’ 30 tough standalone years ■ I was there commentating for 3AW when Sydney Swans team ran onto the SCG in 1982 and the earlier odd matches trialled to test the Harbour City waters.

I was there again on Saturday night to rub shoulders with Barry Round, Stuart Gull, Ricky Quade, physio Dougie Coleman, original Chairman Sir James Hardie (Jim of yachting and wines-NOT asbestos!) and many others who had the faith how far this club would come in 30 years.

From being strangers in a NRL town to AFL premiers in 2005, the club has grown from easy beats to one of the most respected and leading clubs in the AFL. All successful clubs have top administrators – today Swans have Richard Colless, loyal deputy Andrew McMaster, Andrew Ireland and Paul Roos’ coaching legacy run by the savvy John Longmire.

Here are Swans board acting Chairman Andrew McMaster’s comments prior to the weekend’s game against the Demons, the first team the Swans hosted at home in 1982.

It was the perfect occasion to celebrate the club’s historic feat with the commemorative jumper.

“It is a replica of the guernsey that was worn in the first match in 1982 against Melbourne,” he said.

“In the red V of the guernsey, are the names of the team that ran out in our first match, captained by Barry Round.

“The body of the jumper contains the names of the 299 players that have represented the Swans over the 30 years from 1982 to 2011.”

McMaster said it was a fantastic opportunity to honour those players who had been a part of the club’s historic rise in New South Wales.

“A lot has happened during that time and it’s been a long, eventful and sometimes difficult, but most importantly it’s been a rewarding journey for everyone, highlighted by the 2005 premiership.

“I think it’s fantastic that we can honour all of those players who’ve worn the red and white during that period.

“They were pioneers in every sense of the word that paved the way for a strong football club 30 years down the track.”

Impending milestones ■ Longest Gap Between Matches Against an Opponent – Kevin Sheedy, GWS Giants.

This week, Kevin Sheedy will be involved in a match against Essendon for the first time since he was a player for Richmond in round 17, 1978, on July 29.

This gap of 33 years and 302 days represents the longest gap in VFL/ AFL history for any person between matches against one club.

Fitzroy player Paddy Noonan played against Geelong in 1898 and then coached North Melbourne

against Geelong in 1929, representing the previous longest gap of 30 years, 355 days.

Most Games in History – Dustin Fletcher, Essendon.

Dustin is due to play his 356th game this weekend, which will take him level with Bruce Doull and Paul Roos in ninth position in the game’s history.

The leading players in VFL/AFL history are Michael Tuck (Hawthorn, 426 games), Kevin Bartlett (Richmond, 403 games), Robert Harvey (St Kilda, 383 games), Simon Madden (Essendon, 378 games), Craig Bradley (Carlton, 375 games), Bernie Quinlan (Footscray/Fitzroy, 366 games), Brad Johnson (Western Bulldogs, 364 games), John Blakey (Fitzroy/ North Melbourne, 359 games), Bruce Doull (Carlton, 356 games), Paul Roos (Fitzroy/Sydney Swans, 356 games), Dustin Fletcher (Essendon, 355 games), Doug Hawkins (Footscray/Fitzroy, 350 games), Chris Grant (Western Bulldogs, 341 games), Andrew McLeod (Adelaide Crows, 340 games), John Rantall (South Melbourne/North Melbourne/ Fitzroy, 336 games), David Cloke (Richmond/Collingwood, 333 games), Kevin Murray (Fitzroy, 333 games), Justin Madden (Essendon/Carlton, 332 games), Leigh Matthews (Hawthorn, 332 games), Brent Harvey (North Melbourne, 331 games).

250 games – Lenny Hayes, St Kilda Club Record Games Coached – John Worsfold.

John is due to coach his 244th game for West Coast this week, since taking over as senior coach in 2002.

This breaks the club record established by Mick Malthouse between 1990-99.

200 games – Martin Mattner, Sydney Swans 150 games – Jarrad Waite, Carlton 150 games – Farren Ray, St Kilda 100 games – Lindsay Thomas, North Melbourne 100 games – Alipate Carlile, Port Adelaide 100 games – Cheynee Stiller, Brisbane Lions Most Venues Coached At – Kevin Sheedy, GWS Giants/ Essendon. With this week’s first match at Skoda Stadium, GWS Giants coach Kevin Sheedy will coach a match for premiership points at his 25th separate venue.

Allan Jeans (St Kilda/Hawthorn/Richmond), David Parkin (Hawthorn, Carlton, Fitzroy) and Leigh Matthews (Collingwood, Brisbane Lions) all coached at 21 separate venues.

From AFL historian Col Hutchison’s figures, Kevin’s 34 victories v Collingwood is his most against a single club while his best

Round 9 Friday, May 25 Western Bulldogs vs. Geelong Cats (ES) (N) Saturday, May 26 Richmond vs. Hawthorn (MCG) Gold Coast SUNS vs. Port Adelaide (MS) St Kilda vs. Sydney Swans (ES) (T) GWS GIANTS vs. Essendon (SK) (N) Adelaide Crows vs. Collingwood (AS) (N) Sunday, May 27 North Melbourne vs. Brisbane Lions (ES) (E) Carlton vs. Melbourne (MCG) West Coast Eagles vs. Fremantle (PS) (T)

record against any club is an 80 pct strike rate v St Kilda with 33 wins from 41 matches (excluding one match for one win v Gold Coast).

When Kevin began coaching in 1981, current rival coaches Nathan Buckley, Damien Hardwick, James Hird, John Longmire, Mark Neeld, Matthew Primus, Brett Ratten, Brenton Sanderson, Brad Scott, Chris Scott and Michael Voss were all in primary school.

As a completely random stat, an aggregate attendance of 25,890,885 people have been at matches Kevin has coached for Essendon and the GWS Giants, while 8,598,404 people watched Kevin play his 251 senior games for Richmond.

Liam Jarrah out

■ The Melbourne Football Club advises that Liam Jurrah will miss 4-6 weeks of football after injuring his ankle during the fourth quarter of Saturday’s game against the Swans.

Liam has been diagnosed with a low grade, high ankle sprain. Scans confirmed that there was no fracture of the ankle.

Melbourne Football Manager Josh Mahoney said: “Liam has worked extremely hard to get back into the AFL team. Unfortunately, this is another injury setback, however, he has shown his ability to cope with injuries and respond in the past.

“We expect him to make a full recovery and return in the second half of the year.”

The Wave Factor

■ Oh Sheeds you love theme names for important and traditional clashes.

I still like ‘Battle of The Bridges’ for the local NSW Derby Swans v Giants.

Because of your involvement with Essendon and GWS Giants which may grow into the biggest rivalry of all I put forward two ‘naming themes’.

Try ‘The Wave Craze Cup’ or ‘Air-Wave Giant Bomber Bash’ which I’m informed was a specially built aircraft for bombing raids by the US during WWII. You started the ‘wave-craze’. You will never be forgotten. This ‘wavecraze’ can be your ‘signature contribution’ to our game.

It’s your baby. You’re smart so what’s your naming theme’for your Rd 9 match? Try the X Factor.

- Harry Beitzel

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 23, 2012 - Page 87

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