On Wednesday 25th September we went to the Lyric Theatre in Hammersmith to see Our Country's Good. This is a theatre that we have been to quite often and they always put on things that are quirky and engaging. 

The play deals with a ship carrying convicts to Australia in the 18th Century. One of the soldiers escorting the convicts decides to use a more positive approach to engage with the convicts. He decides to direct a production of the Restoration Comedy 'The Recruiting Officer'. This 'play within a play' set up worked really well and the performers did a great job of playing their characters who were themselves playing the role in the play!

A lot of sympathy was created by the plight of the convicts, some of whom had been falsely accused and sentenced. Strangely, there was a lot of humour in the play, as one pickpocket relished the chance to try to play multiple roles; much like Bottom in 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'. Another notable element was the character of the Aboriginal Australian. She spoke of the damage that would be done to the land by these 'invaders'. this was symbolised by the increasing mess that was made of the stage throughout the piece.

Overall, we really enjoyed this production and will consider it as a piece we can perform for our practical exams.

Mr B Tekerian, Head of Drama