Theatre: Taking Liberty

Deckchair Theatre

Written by Ingle Knight

Directed by Chris Bendall

Designed by Andrew Bellchambers

Featuring Stuart Halusz, Luke Hewitt, Benj D’Addario, Greg McNeill, Craig Williams and Nick Candy

Luke Hewitt, Greg McNeill and Benj D'Addario

 As luck would have it, in September 2008 I celebrated the 25^th Anniversary of the Bond syndicate’s famous America’s Cup victory on San Diego Harbour aboard an exact replica of the nineteenth century schooner that won the trophy that has carried its name ever since. 

Meanwhile, back in WA, Ingle Knight had a hit on his hands with Taking Liberty, his rollicking tale of the triumph of Australia II that ended “the longest winning streak in world sport”.

And I can understand why. This revival by Deckchair Theatre pushes every button you would expect from an unashamed hagiography. It’s funny, disrespectful but affectionate, gloriously false and yet emotionally true. And, against all the odds, it’s genuinely, physically, exciting.

You can be forgiven for approaching a play about some yacht race with trepidation, but I can safely say that if you’re looking for a fabulous time out on the ocean this month, but want to keep your feet dry doing it, Taking Liberty is the show for you.   

Link here to the complete review in The West Australian