What I liked
This show was awesome. And while it boasts an impressive Fringe set and authentic period costuming, this show’s selling point is its bare-bones structure and performance. Making it all the way to Hollywood via Australia, The Girl Who Jumped… is not only a treat because of its genuine 1949 portrayal of Hollywood, but also because Joanne Hartstone, a gal from down-under, is the playwright. This Aussie is absolutely brilliant in her performance as a 1940s American gal who aspires to be a star. At no point is there a trace of her Australian heritage. She completely transforms into a starlet from the old black and white movies. Her dialect, her mannerisms and her singing, which is another treat the show offers, are spot-on. Joanne’s vocal stylings make us feel as if Judy Garland has graced the stage. I wanted to hear Joanne sing “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” she was that good. Gays over 50, you’re in for an added treat. Judy is back, gurl!
What I didn't like
I think it would be eerie and more compelling if Evie were actually the ghost of the original girl who jumped from the sign and she had returned to tell her story. It’s possible Evie was the ghost and I didn’t pick up on it, because, for me, the end was a bit unclear. To be honest, I did have a couple glasses of wine before the show, so it’s possible the end went over my head. No bother, because this is a show I would see again!
My overall impression
This play completely captures that ‘noir’ feel. You are taken back to a different era in Hollywood. At some point in the show, you forget the current time and are living in history. Brilliant and inspiring work!
