ENRON

As always it was a pleasure to have visited with Carlton Theatre Group (CTG) and, on this occasion, watch their production of Lucy Preeble’s dramatic play – ENRON. Whilst this story is a sad reflection on the business world, I do enjoy visiting with CTG. The range of productions staged is always varied, interesting and challenging - ENRON proved to be no exception.  

The plot concerns one of the most infamous scandals in financial history. It follows the real-life story of how ENRON rose to become one of the biggest-earning companies in the world before quickly sinking into bankruptcy through dubious practices and corruption. As someone who was living in Houston at the time of ENRON’s meteoric rise I can remember the events clearly. It was shocking to see such a powerful company collapse in 2001 with debts so vast they were barely believable. Individual greed, ambition and the combined incompetence of lawyers, bankers and accountants was appalling.

Harry Cowper is to be congratulated as Director for delivering such a powerful piece of drama. Any scepticism regarding the lack of set, or minimal props, was instantly dismissed as those performing quickly ‘drew the audience in’. Indeed, with no delays throughout, the plot simply unfolded and moved at pace.  The performance was thoroughly absorbing with casting being exceptional and inspired. I found this production to be slick, witty and hugely entertaining. Ultimately, it’s a depressing story of immense business failure but it was told in such an entertaining manner. Having the Lehman Brothers as Siamese twins with Arthur Anderson as a ventriloquist and his dummy broke the tension.  

If the acting was superb then it goes without saying that the raptors absolutely stole the show. Having the novelty of Jurassic Park suddenly invading a random office in America was both unexpected and very amusing.  It was the talented actors who had the precise motions and dynamics that greatly impressed. Credit here to Natalie Romero who, as Movement Director, must have spent considerable time instructing the actors how to be raptors!

When a string of lights appeared to be randomly held across the stage by the cast I wondered just what this meant. When lit, and with explanation, the scene became a very poignant reflection on the pros and cons of free market economics – or capitalism.

Overall an excellent production – congratulations to CTG and everyone involved with ENRON. Enjoy your Christmas break and I look forward to future shows in 2023.

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