16/08/2014
Thanks to Theatrenerd for this review of Orphans!
REVIEW: ORPHANS
Written by British playwright Dennis Kelly, Orphans is an impactful dramatic thriller, which under the direction of Douglas Montgomery ticks away until it leaves you gasping for air at the conclusion.
The play has a dark sense of humour which peppers the dialogue throughout. Dealing with a deeply sensitive subject, that of racial prejudice and violence, the play delves deep into the human psyche via way of the three characters on stage. Fortunately for the audience, the slightly heightened language enables a certain distance from the gut-wrenching events occurring. It also allows the audience to reflect on current events. This clever device ensures that the engagement never ceases until the final moment.
As Helen, Shian Denovan is riveting. She is completely believable, which makes her final reveal in act two all the more devastating. Gavin Williams grounds his Danny in a realism that balances against the chaos of the other two characters. Pat Moonie's Liam is manic and frantic. He is sometimes sympathetic, but ultimately somewhat of a monster.
The three work together to tighten the coil bit by bit as the show moves through its confrontation with the audience. The piece raises many questions and it takes a director of skill to ensure these are drawn out and that the audience is picked up, shaken and left with the message of the piece. Hats off to Montgomery and cast for ensuring that the intensity builds and never waivers, even after an unnecessarily long intermission.
Playing at the Mechanics Institute until the end of the week. Tickets through http://www.steamproductions.com.au
