2nd June 2008

Ian Smith CHANGING ROLES

It is fantastic to see IAN SMITH back on stage in Australia after all the years that we have known him so intimately on TV as Harold from Neighbours. In Hobsons Choiceat Chapel Off Chapel he is playing a character that is entirely different to his Neighbours persona. We are so used to the fussy mannerisms of Harold Bishop that it is hard to imagine that they can just be wiped from the slate. But there are absolutely no signs of Harold Bishop in the character of Dr McFarlane that IAN has created for this production of Hobsons Choice. It has been fascinating to watch the transformation. IAN SMITH is an actor who uses the characters pre-history as an important tool in building character. The character notes he created are printed in the programme and it makes very interesting reading. It is a delightful experience seeing the subtle ways the characters past life experience emerges in his performance.

IAN SMITH 'Harold from Neighbours' & Sean Scully in rehearsal.

IAN SMITH & IAN ROONEY rehearsing

Richard Sarell, who first worked with Ian Smith on the ABCs serial Bellbirdin the 1970s, is excited about IAN SMITHs contribution to Hobsons Choice. Ian never behaves as a star he is always just a working actor. The generous support he gives to the other actors is wonderful. He has often been quietly watching in rehearsal and applauding the efforts of the other actors. Ians approval is not given lightly and the rest of the cast are really lifted by his support. Hobsons Choice has a strong cast that are bringing an enormous amount of skill to telling this charming story. I didnt want it to end,Joanne Wraight said as the lights came up at the end of Sundays performance.

Hobsons Choice is a MUST SEE SHOW. Whether your interests are AN ENTERTAINING NIGHT OUT or THE ESSENTIAL INGREDIENTS OF GOOD PERFORMANCE Hobsons Choiceis THE SHOW TO SEE. You only have till June 14th. BOOK NOW 8290 7000 or www.chapeloffchapel.com.au

Very refreshing, and very funny. If you do another play anytime soon - I'd love to audition.actor Shanrah Wakefield after Saturdays performance.

PETER McTIGHE (Willie) CAROLINE LLOYD (Maggie) in Hobsons Choice at Chapel Off Chapel till June 14th BOOK NOW 8290 7000 or www.chapeloffchapel.com.au

Hobsons Choice The Rehearsal Room process at work.