Anything to declare?

The Dark Room, Centre Point Theatre, 19th-21st July, 10.30pm

Bookings and Information 021 10 11 007

By Mel Dodge Directed by Rachel More

How can a one woman play with minimal props reveal the darkest aspects of Europe in an hour and still make you laugh? Mel Dodge is a gifted actress who portrays a convincing range of characters from a naïve Kiwi backpacker to an elderly lady who once fled the Nazis. Not all were likeable, but each was vulnerable and wonderfully portrayed. The jokes were fun, however, this was not a comedy. This cleverly written play elicited shock, laughter and tears. The intimacy of the small theatre made the subtleties of Miss Dodge's acting a joy to see. It should be required viewing for any wide-eyed teenager contemplating a gap year. A profound and thoughtful rough guide to Europe."

www.ThreeWeeks.com - August 2006.

"A compelling and artfully conveyed tour de force."

Manawatu Standard - February 2006.

"A successful self-written and performed solo show is one of the most difficult, not to mention nerve-wracking experiences for a young actor. In her show about the big OE, Mel Dodge makes it look easy.

Dodge takes us from the irony of travelling across the world for freedom – on a strict itinerary – to the intricate etiquette of hostel masturbation through a variety of diverse and entertaining characters. Dodge's ability to shift from the fresh faced kiwi girl to the jaded French prostitute to the thuggish football hooligan is seamless, each character a distinct individual that weaves in out of the story. One effortlessly blends into another, and comes together in order to create the complete overseas experience in 35 minutes. Dodge makes great use of a minimalist set using only a backpack and a wooden bench (suitably squeaky for the hilarious and beautifully choreographed sex scene – no mean feat to perform considering it is a solo show!)

The lighting design by Katrina Chandra was another highlight (yeah, I know – bad pun) which complemented Dodge's acting perfectly, emphasising the moods and attitudes of Dodge's characters without being overly obtrusive.

Great show, Mel Dodge is definitely a name to look out for!"

Salient - February 2006.

"Overseas travel can provide rich pickings for a play as is seen in Anything To Declare - the early evening production currently playing at BATS as part of Fringe 06. In a production of honesty and sincerity in both the writing and performance, actor/writer Mel Dodge relays the joyous and not so joyous adventures of travelling through Europe on her OE. 

Under the tutelage of experienced director Rachel More the production is centred squarely on the central character Lucy, wide eyed and bushed tailed as she sets forth on her travels. The innocence and naivety of Lucy who has to rapidly grow up in order to survive is wonderfully portrayed by Dodge. 

The production is also not overly burdened with extraneous characters that Lucy meets on the way, but those that she does are clearly defined by Dodge, in both voice and mannerism, making this low key production a very satisfying one to watch.   "

The Dominion Post - February 2006

"Mel Dodge is super. She's open faced and vibrant and nails accents like no other. She takes control of the stage and doesn't let go. Anything to declare? Is worth seeing to remind you that the world is simultaneously your oyster and your worst nightmare."

The Package - February 2006.