Ferntree Gully’s own Avid Theatre is set to electrify local audiences with an independent stage production of Quentin Tarantino’s cult classic Reservoir Dogs, running from 30 October to 8 November at The Bakery (1812 Theatre) on Rose Street, Upper Ferntree Gully.
The director of the production and owner of Avid Theatre, Michael Fenemore said the film’s intense, pressure-cooker energy begged to be experienced live.
“Tarantino’s Reservoir Dogs has this electric, pressure-cooker intensity that just begs to be experienced live,” Mr Fenemore said.
“The dialogue is razor-sharp, the characters are unforgettable, and at its core, it’s a gritty, character-driven drama, which translates beautifully to theatre.”
Rather than attempting a direct shot-for-shot recreation, Mr Fenemore said the production takes advantage of theatre’s raw, stripped-back nature to offer an intimate and immersive experience.
“We’re theatricalising the tension, the betrayals, the claustrophobia,” he said.
“It’s Reservoir Dogs, but through a live, pulsing, indie-theatre lens.”
The production features a local cast and crew who have embraced the challenge with passion and grit.
Mr Fenemore said working with local talent added a unique energy to the show.
“It’s collaborative, it’s bold, and it’s local talent doing something unapologetically gutsy,” he said.
Locals are encouraged to come along whether they are fans of the film or simply keen to see something fresh and boundary-pushing on stage.
“If you’re into theatre that pushes boundaries, this is for you,” Mr Fenemore said.
“It’s fast, intense, funny in that dark Tarantino way, and full of surprises.”
Mr Fenemore said The Bakery, a beloved venue in Upper Ferntree Gully, plays an important role in supporting independent theatre.
“They’re vital,” he said.
“They give independent companies a platform to tell stories that might not fit in mainstream spaces, stories that are rougher, edgier, more immediate.
“Without venues like this, productions like ours don’t happen, they’re the heartbeat of a thriving, diverse theatre scene.”
Reservoir Dogs will run from 30 October to 8 November at The Bakery, Rose Street, Upper Ferntree Gully.
Tickets are available through the theatre.
For the latest updates and ticket info, keep an eye on the Avid Theatre Facebook page: facebook.com/share/1FdMk3rpNe/
