In a commanding return to the stage, beloved Australian actor Noni Hazlehurst delivers a performance of profound depth and resilience in the Melbourne Arts Centre's stirring revival of Jean Anouilh's The Lark.
Hazlehurst embodies the complex dual role of the narrator and the iconic Joan of Arc, guiding the audience through a non-linear retelling of the saint's trial and execution. Her portrayal is not one of simplistic piety, but rather a masterclass in nuance, capturing Joan's stubborn faith, her very human doubts, and the immense spiritual and political weight she carried.
A Timely Tale of Conviction and Power
Directed with sharp clarity, this production strips away any sentimental gloss to present a raw and politically charged narrative. The stark, imposing set design evokes the cold rigidity of the ecclesiastical court, placing the focus intensely on the psychological drama unfolding between Joan and her interrogators.
The play's exploration of truth, integrity, and the individual's struggle against oppressive systems resonates with startling relevance for a modern audience. The questions it poses about who gets to write history and whose voices are silenced feel urgently contemporary.
A Supporting Cast of Moral Complexity
Hazlehurst is powerfully supported by a strong ensemble cast who deftly portray the figures who condemned Joan. They are not presented as mere villains, but as men bound by dogma, political pragmatism, and their own fears, adding rich layers of moral ambiguity to the production.
The pacing is taut, the dialogue crisp, and the emotional stakes are palpable from the opening scene to the haunting final moments. This is not a easy night at the theatre, but it is an immensely powerful and thought-provoking one.
This revival of The Lark confirms the enduring power of Anouilh's text and solidifies Noni Hazlehurst's status as one of Australia's most formidable and compelling stage actors. It is a must-see production that continues to ignite discussion long after the curtain falls.
