Review: Zorro, Traverse Theatre

Published on Tuesday 8 December 2009 08:52

Zorro **** Traverse Theatre

SINCE his original conception as iconic pulp fiction poster-boy of the early twentieth century, this masked swordsman has undergone countless reincarnations, this time lending himself to the festive slot at the Traverse Theatre.

Don Diego de la Vega, son of esteemed military captain Don Alejandro Vega, is an impressionable and enthusiastic young boy with a respectful envy of his father's discerning warrior spirit. When a mystery intruder breaks in and slays his father, the seed is sown for this deep affection to grow into an unyielding desire for justice.

Taken in by long-time friend of his father, Governor Don Carlos, by day Don Diego is consigned to the humble role of stable boy where he develops a secret affection for the Governor's daughter, Isabella. But unknown to all around him, the young Don Diego surreptitiously pursues justice for terrorised peasants at every opportunity, leaving behind nothing but a carved "Z" in defiance of those who tread a wicked path through life.

Gaining a degree of notoriety for his benevolent heroics in rescuing victims from the treacherous actions of tyrannical Captain Esteban, Zorro finds himself the unwitting object of Isabella's affections, while she remains unaware of her hero's true identity.

Central to the story is this emerging love triangle and Zorro's choice between vigilante justice and the greater good, brought perfectly into focus through Esteban's greed-driven pursuit of Isabella, whose hand in marriage he seeks as a means to oust her father from power.

The beauty of this production by children's company Visible Fictions is its simple and timeless portrayal of good versus evil, the latter expertly personified in maniacal baddie Captain Esteban, played by Richard Conlon. His endearing enthusiasm and cheeky charm really bring to life the character you just love to hate.

Zorro's story has been subject to many different interpretations over the years and director Douglas Irvine has drawn on this creative freedom to inventively translate the story to the stage. Supported by minimal sounds and lighting throughout, the cast of three work tirelessly to assemble a bewildering array of simple fold-out props, deliver well-choreographed sword-fighting scenes with all the fast paced energy of a comic book action sequence and takes on the role of puppeteers to hilariously portray some of the more demanding sequences.

Writer Davey Anderson deserves credit for the way he utilises sharp, air-tight narration to best effect, providing countless moments of astute comic timing and moving the story along swiftly as the inevitable face-off between Esteban and Zorro looms.

But ultimately it is the cast that make this production a success. Claire Dargo as Isabella, and Sandy Grierson as Zorro are by no means overshadowed by the charismatic Conlon's flawless delivery. Their enthusiastic performances are engaging yet simple, without ever underestimating the imagination of the young audience.

The target audience here is undoubtedly younger children, but there is no denying the captivating and endearing qualities which will make this a fun day out for all the family.

Run ends 24 December