Reviews at the Rialto
Reviews at the Rialto was established to provide insightful reviews with a comprehensive understanding of theatrical production and the diverse roles integral to its realization.
A discernible gap existed in the critical landscape, where reviews often focused solely on plot recapitulation or performance critique, neglecting a holistic evaluation of the production's multifaceted elements.
Reviews at the Rialto is committed to providing insightful and comprehensive analyses of independent theatre, employing a holistic approach that recognises and amplifies the diverse skills and talents of every contributing member of a production.
This platform offers a valuable opportunity for emerging and early-career artists to receive documented recognition of their contributions and skills.
This approach ensures that reviews extend beyond mere plot summaries to encompass an analysis of the production's execution, highlighting commendable achievements and offering constructive insights for future development.
Reviews at the Rialto endeavors to use a reviewing framework that analyses the artists' production methodologies, the rationale behind their theatrical choices, and the resultant impact on the overall production.
Samara Louise
Samara Louise is an award winning and multifaceted artist, playwright, author, stage manager, director, vocalist, actor, and designer.
Her debut play, ‘Set Me On Fire’, was met with critical praise earning her 2nd Place for Stage Buzz Awards ‘Best Independent Original Script’, alongside nominations for ‘Best Independent Set Design’ (Stage Buzz Awards), ‘The Anywhere Award for Theatre’ (Anywhere Festival), The Anywhere Audience Vote’ (Anywhere Festival), and 2024 ‘People’s Choice’ Top 10 Nominee (Theatre Haus).
She is skilled in an array of writing styles in both fiction and non-fiction genres. Notable credits include as the author of poetry book ‘the love that remains’ (2022), playwright of ‘Close, But No Cigar’ (2025), and journalist for Happy Magazine, Vermilion Magazine, and Glass Magazine.
Her diverse skills extend to both on and off stage credits that notably include a Behind The Scenes Matilda Nomination (2023) for Stage Management in ‘The Bed Party’, lead vocalist on the Channel 10 Neighbours Series Finale ‘Heart Says No’ (2022), and earning the RABTA Best Actress in a Supporting Role for her portrayal of Sharpay Evans in ‘High School Musical (2021).
A QUT Bachelor of Fine Arts (Drama) with Distinction graduate, Samara believes in the skill and talent of independent artists and aims to support that through Reviews at the Rialto.