Neighbourhood Watch

 Set in that silver sliver of time between Kevin 07 and Obama 08, Lally Katz’s play follows aspiring actress Catherine, played by Megan Holloway, who befriends her elderly Hungarian-born neighbour, Ana, played by the wonderful Robyn Nevin. Hilarious, poignant and touching, Katz’s beautifully crafted story explores how this unlikely friendship transforms both women’s lives.

 Neighbourhood Watch by Lally KatzBelvoir Street Theatre 
 Set in that silver sliver of time between Kevin 07 and Obama 08, Lally Katz’s play follows aspiring actress Catherine, played by Megan Holloway, who befriends her elderly Hungarian-born neighbour, Ana, played by the wonderful Robyn Nevin. Hilarious, poignant and touching, Katz’s beautifully crafted story explores how this unlikely friendship transforms both women’s lives. Nevin is superb as Ana, driving the show with her portrayal of the hardened but humorously eccentric character. Holloway brings a depth and youthful energy to Catherine, who is a counterpoint to Ana, hopeful and trusting, but also with her own traumatic past. Charlie Garber, Kris McQuade, Ian Meadows, and Heather Mitchell round out the rest of the brilliant cast with McQuade a stand out with her hilarious but heartbreaking portrayal of Milova, Ana’s old neighbour. Stefan Gregory’s live music integrates masterfully into the production, and his portrayal of various smaller parts is simple and heart-warming. Simon Stone’s excellent directing ties the whole production together into an immaculate piece of theatre.   ***** Damo****1/2 Liam Playing Until: August 28, 2011  

Lally Katz on Ana