OBSERVER: Perfect Nonsense
Heidelberg Theatre Company opens 2025 with the farcical comedy Jeeves and Wooster in Perfect Nonsense, running until March 1 at Heidelberg Theatre, Rosanna.
Inspired by P.G. Wodehouse’s The Code of the Woosters (1938) and written by Robert and David Goodale, this fast-paced, witty show set in the 1930s was winner of the 2014 Olivier Award for Best New Comedy.
Perfect Nonsense tells of English gentleman Bertie Wooster (Daniel Trenkovski) deciding to stage his own play to recount the peculiar events of a country house weekend.
He recruits his personal butler Jeeves (Sam Howard) and Aunt Dahlia’s butler Seppings (Gavin Baker) to help present the play and portray the characters.
Mayhem ensues with Bertie as the narrator espousing light-hearted nonsense in his storytelling, along with slick and sometimes entertaining set changes, skilfully contrived quick costume changes and some excellent multi-role playing by Jeeves and Seppings.
Director/Set Designer Morgan Thomas-Connor ensures a well-staged show from the beginning, establishing the vaudeville era with the onstage closed, rich red velvet curtain, atmospheric shell footlights and 1930s music.
Daniel Trenkovski’s confident portrayal of Bertie Wooster includes good physicality, charm and a natural rapport with the audience. Clearer enunciation of dialogue would top off an enjoyable performance.
Jeeves (Sam Howard) plays Sir Watkyn Bassett, Gussie Fink Nottle and Stiffy Byng as well as himself, while Seppings (Gavin Baker) portrays Aunt Dahlia, Roderick Spode, Butterfield, Madeline Bassett, Constable Oates, an Antique Shop Proprietor and himself.
These contrasting roles showcase Sam Howard and Gavin Baker’s impressive acting talents and comedy timing.
Lighting design is by Tamsin Mackie and sound by Tamsin Mackie and Jerome Pollard. Cathy Christensen and Wendy Drowley designed the costumes.
The lively little vaudeville routine end-of-show is terrific – the perfect finish.
Possibly this 1930s madcap English comedy style will not appeal to all contemporary theatregoers, but many will enjoy it.
Bravo to Heidelberg Theatre Company for including Perfect Nonsense in their 2025 season.
Performance Season: Until March 1
Venue: Heidelberg Theatre, 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna
Bookings: htc.org.au
- Review by Cheryl Threadgold

