Writer: Eliza Williams
Director: Deirdre Daly
Karen and Emma are old friends, losing touch over the years since they were younger and both ending up on very different paths in life. Karen is working two jobs, struggling to make ends meet, no kids and a fiancé of 20 years that still won’t commit fully to her. Emma on the other hand is a happily married, prominent figure on the PTA, with two sons and a pug. But as far apart as their lives appear, it’s not only their old school they have in common; their lives are scarily intertwined.
Boot is a wonderful whirlwind from start to finish. Writer and performer Eliza Williams brings her expertly written script to life, packed with so many punches and plot twists that the audience are, at points, quite literally on the edge of their seats. The narrative flows easily, with a perfect amount of dark humour sprinkled into the intensely gripping storyline. Both characters are well-layered and intriguing – with Williams slowly introducing snippets about their backstories amidst the build-up of tension.
While it wouldn’t normally be a compliment to say that someone imitates a madcap almost too convincingly, in this instance it most definitely is. Williams has Karen’s manic, on-edge, psychotic persona down to a tee. Williams is not only an excellent writer, but an excellent actor too. Her character is counteracted with polar-opposite Emma, played by Kate O’Rourke. Her gentle, flustered, jittery portrayal works brilliantly, keeping the audience on their toes along with her character.
The very basic set is barely considered within the show, which can occasionally hinder a performance by being so stripped back, but because the writing is so strong, the audience barely even have time to notice the lack of surrounding for fear they may miss another quip or venomous glare.
Considering it is only a short show, with a runtime of one hour, it is still full of suspense and emotion, with the audience having no idea where the plot is going next or how the highly charged interactions will culminate. Topped off with a satisfyingly creative finish, both Williams and O’Rourke are definitely ones to watch out for in the future.
Runs until 5 March 2022
