The Front Lawn

Press, 15 October 1986, Page 8

The Front Lawn

The Front Lawn present “The Reason for Breakfast,” at the Court Studio, October 14 to 18, 8.15 p.m. (Friday and Saturday, 8.15 p.m. and 11 p.m.). Running time 75 minutes. Reviewed by Michael O’Brien. The. Front Lawn is a multi-talented twosome, Harry Sinclair and Don McGlashan. “The Reason for Breakfast” is a stunningly original and highly entertaining expression of their excellence. The first half presents a variety of six songs and sketches which combine music and dance in a flow of rhythmic energy. From a simply voiced “Dum-di-di-da” which trumpets the beginning, the show builds to a lunatic dance above ■. the breakfast table. Sinclair plays the confident - host building a close rap- 1 ,

port that never flags. Their first routine sets the tone for much of the evening. Slapstick, song, wit and dance are used to present a rather agricultural Russian view of New Zealand. It is a good opening. "Bones,” strong melody backed by simple drumming, is full of punch. Such percussive quality is expanded in "Hammer Dance” as two chippies explore the potential of the common carpenter’s hammer. Their innovation and unique style are exciting. Their versatility is a delight. In spite of this, one of the highlights is the sparingly accompanied “I’m Right,” which’is based on 5 the simple repetition of word and movement, . cleverly interspliced with .perfect timing and quick

switches. All talents converge in “The Reason for Breakfast.” From bleary-eyed beginnings amid the burbling of the jug comes a fresh look at what has become one of life’s little rituals. At this sitting is a feast of delights, as Sinclair and McGlashan scale new . innovative heights (as well as the breakfast table). Voice, humour, and percussion reach operatic proportions to ensure that you will never view your hot water jug in the same light again. What a brilliant, madcap sketch! This show deserves more than a half-filled theatre. It presents an evening (albeit brief) of surprise and delight in a fresh, original way. Take this opportunity to see something different.