The Legend Of Ned Kelly: Hero or Villain? – Adelaide Fringe Review

The Irish Club, Sun 22 Feb Was Ned Kelly a Hero or Villain? This is the question we, the audience are asked by the actors on stage, through words written by Deirdre Quinn and song and lyrics written by Tony Sutton and Sue Oldknow respectively. We are led through the events that took place during Ned Kelly’s and the Kelly’s Gang short life, with Ned’s eventual capture and hanging. Although only still recent history for us as a Nation, as events only took place 140 years ago, the story and legend that is Ned Kelly was brought to life by a group of people who clearly like what they do, however there was room for improvement in the performances from most of those on stage and also in the execution of the production. As a whole – basic stage craft seemed a little flawed with stage crew walking through scenes and actors and stage crew seen in the wings waiting to go on. Mismatched microphones intruded on eye lines for audience members, but also meant that actors were awkwardly moving forward (as the stage seemed a little too small for this story) to stand in front of the microphones so as to be heard over the piano and drums and then moving back into their scene. Though special mention must be made of Aden Quinn (as Dan Kelly) as he did work hard to be animated and brought life to the story and scenes. As far as accents go, Paul McLean as Ned Kelly himself delivered an almost perfect Northern Irish accent, however, I do not believe this accent was the right choice for this production. Many other versions of accents were attempted by others on stage, but most could not decide where in Ireland they came from and often fell back into their Aussie twang. Charissa McCluskey-Garcia The Legend Of Ned Kelly continues at The Irish Club from 7.30pm until Sat 5 Mar. Book at FringeTIX on 1300 621 255 or adelaidefringe.com.au. Click HERE to purchase your tickets.