Written by David Williamson
Directed by Céline Oudin
Mockingbird Theatre Company
Belconnen Arts Centre to 17 October
Reviewed by Len Power 7 October 2026
Whether you think restorative justice has a place alongside conventional justice or not, the process as it unfolds can bring to light hidden truths, motivations, personal judgements and shameful practices that may have a bearing on the reason the accused committed the crime.
In David Williamson’s stark play, a young man with a quick temper has been charged with rear-ending his boss’s Mercedes causing injury as well as damage after being sacked. The deed is not disputed by the accused, and in conventional justice his actions would likely see him gaoled.
Ten people, a room, some chairs, a conversation.
In Céline Oudin’s production we observe nine people who were all connected to this case. There are no other scenery or props, but there is a facilitator, Jack Manning. We are even aware of traffic passing in the street outside. Our concentration is, therefore, completely on the restorative justice meeting that takes place.
It was just a joke.
Immediately we are drawn into a picture of a toxic workplace where bored and bitter workers take out their frustrations on others with hurtful practical jokes. The accused with his quick temper and naivety quickly becomes a target. The facilitator, Jack Manning, unearths how all nine people played their part in a situation that exploded into violence.
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| Sachin Nyak (Jack Manning) |
Sachin Nyak as Jack Manning and Joshua Nicholls as the accused, Glen Tregaskis, stand out with their prominence in the script, but everyone onstage gives a fine performance, too, creating believable and recognizable characters.
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| Joshua Nicholls (Glen Tregaskis) |
The director, Céline Oudin, keeps the action moving at a
well-measured pace. The ninety minutes running time without a break feels
considerably shorter, a sure sign that we have been drawn successfully into the
drama of the play.
At times, Williamson’s script felt contrived. It was hard to believe that some characters would be as forgiving as they were in so short a time and be hugging and handshaking. His discussion of the issues arising sounded more like a man on a soapbox than good drama. However, his observation of Australian characters and their strengths and weaknesses is as strong as ever.
Photos by Chris Baldock
Len Power's reviews are also broadcast on Artsound FM 92.7 in the ‘Arts Cafe’ and ‘Arts About’ programs.
