Con artist

According to writer Guy Rundle, The Big Con is all around us. He believes Australian society is controlled by two men who run the media and politicians who tell us what we want to hear. He thinks we accept lies if we like the lie, are offered an abundance of choice but few alternatives and that we are viewing television which faithfully reflects back traditional social values. Rundle thinks these systems have us trapped for the moment, but comedy and satire are a great way to start a counter-attack.

Rundle demonstrates this approach in The Big Con, a satirical, witty play which makes a mockery of key political figures and media personalities. It’s entertaining and thought provoking, with few contemporary political topics left untackled. However, the inherent premise that as a society we need to be made aware of how we are shaped by the media and the ‘powers that be’ doesn’t give Australians much credit for intelligence. This premise appears to assume that we are accepting of the information that is fed to us, and while in many cases this may be true, many studies have proven that audiences are increasingly savvy when it comes to politics and the media and often question and challenge the information that is provided.

As the season opener at the newly renamed Malthouse Theatre (formerly Playbox) The Big Con is an interesting choice. Gay marriage is a major focus point in the first act, controversial Herald Sun journalist Andrew Bolt receives a stab, as does Governor Arnie, talk-back host Alan Jones, tycoon Rupert Murdoch and Foreign Minister Alexander Downer. Some moments were so ‘politically incorrect’ that I had to take a moment to remind myself it was a send-up, to prevent leaving the theatre in a huff.

Actor Max Gillies played a multitude of characters and was really quite brilliant in his ability to capture key traits of these figures. Eddie Perfect provided the narrative link, playing the piano and singing quite complicated songs with political agendas.

Shaun Gurton’s set design was simple but effective - the play is really about the dialogue and the issues raised, not the presentation.

The Big Con does make you think, but Guy Rundle is also making a big call by assuming society are not already aware of the systems that shape our opinions and way of life. However it serves as a good reminder and is a really great way to have a laugh at some of the more frustrating situations, personalities, statements, beliefs and systems that are integral in shaping our society.

Melinda Oliver

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The Big Con

Company: Malthouse Theatre and Sydney Opera House
Venue:
Melbourne: Malthouse Theatre
Brisbane: Brisbane Powerhouse
Dates: Melbourne: to April 3
Brisbane: June 22 - July 2, 2005