'Boys in the Band' stands the test of time

Shane Bosher flanked by Jake Lindesay (left) and Craig Hall in 'The Boys in the Band'.

It is safe to say that Bishop Brian and his congregation won't be heading down to the Silo Theatre to see The Boys in the Band, a play that dissects the lives of seven gay friends.

That's a shame, because it's a fun night out that makes you laugh and think at the same time, thanks to an intelligent script packed with zingy one-liners and some spunky performances from the handsome young cast.

The Boys in the Band eavesdrops on a dinner party in a New York apartment at a time when lasagne was an exotic dish and queer culture was on the fringes.

Michael is preparing an all-gay birthday party for his friend Harold when trouble arrives in the form of gate-crasher Alan, a homophobe and former college room mate who doesn't know that Michael is gay. Train crash doesn't even begin to describe the fun that follows.

A lot rests on Stephen Butterworth's shoulders as Michael and, despite some opening night jitters, he succeeds with a performance that brings to mind the film A Torch Song Trilogy.

Craig Hall is impressive as his nemesis Alan in an understated and sympathetic portrayal of a man well and truly out of his comfort zone.

As Harold, Shane Bosher does a fabulous star turn, lifting the play from the moment he appears with his energy and comic timing.

Other standouts in the ensemble cast were Edward Peni as the effeminate Emory and Edwin Wright as the straight-acting Hank. Peni gives the pansy Emory a dignified strength while Wright creates one of the most touching moments of the play by showing the weakness of strong guy Hank.

Opening night saw some lost lines and moments where the action lagged. Also, stronger direction is needed to keep the actors' movements focused and to sort out positioning problems. Hopefully, these issues will be addressed because, overall, this is a class act.

With a period play, the test of longevity is to see if it is still relevant, thought-provoking or controversial. The Boys in the Band scores in all areas, despite gay culture appearing more mainstream these days.

Although we have civil unions, gay MPs in Parliament and gay characters on television, old prejudices remain. Brian Tamaki calls Georgina Beyer the vilest names on national television. Will & Grace is feted for bringing gay characters to prime time - but poor Will doesn't have a boyfriend. It seems we still prefer our gay icons neutered.

This combination of acceptance and repulsion makes me hesitate to mention the most tender moments of the show for fear of turning audience members away. If they do stay away they will miss out on a witty, intelligent reminder of the universal human need for love and acceptance.

Review

* What: The Boys in the Band
* Where: Silo Theatre until July 2