More than a few* of my rural interviewees have mentioned Table Settings as one of the shows they can’t wait to see! I interviewed Briahna Tatham to get the lowdown…
* I have only done three posts on shows divised by CSU grads. This is thus hyperbole.
1. What’s ya show?
Table Settings, a one act comedy about a couple’s struggle to decide on a seating arrangement for their dinner party. As ugly business partnerships, competitive streaks, children’s quarrels and raunchy affairs start to take play, Jill and Bill’s pleasant evening is destroyed as they face the realities of the social politics within their circle of friends.
2. What did you learn studying Theatre / Media at CSU that helps you work as an artist?
Theatre Media made me realise the type of theatre I want to create: theatre that doesn’t try to preach to its audience, but rather offers a serving of good old, comic entertainment that I think audiences so often crave.
3. What could Sydney learn from Bathurst?
That a ‘Theatre’ isn’t the only platform for a performance, and that it doesn’t need to be aimed at the artistic crowd. I’d love to see a ‘mumming show’ in one of the pubs in sydney, and I think the people here would really enjoy it.
4. Why are fringe arts important?
We are a company of university graduates looking to expose our skills – the Fringe allows us to showcase these collectively with others in the same situation; that’s an invaluable umbrella to be under. We believe in pure entertainment, and if we can achieve that then this show will establish us as a company.
5. What other CSU alumni shows are you going to see at The Fringe?
‘Before and After Knockoff‘ by James Pike.
Table Settings plays at St Lukes, 17th, 19th, 25th and 26th September.
