Writer: Mark Bastin
Director: Finlay Glen
Long-married couple Gina and Dennis have been through their fair share of tribulations during their relationship. Gina is wild, sassy and full of emotion, a total opposite of mild-mannered, laidback husband Dennis. Their yin and yang personalities may the reason opposites attracted in the first instance, but could they also be the driving force that is pushing them apart after all these years?
Mark Bastin’s script has promise and is at times captivating, but the direction from Finlay Glen is lacking in areas. As Gina (Susan Graham) and Dennis (Mark Steere) take their bleak walk down memory lane, there are multiple points where the audience can’t help but feel excited as to where the narrative will take them, but it just keeps falling flat. It feels as though they are going through the motions with the script, with little passion and not enough pizazz to bring the intriguing characters to life.
The conflicting memories that each character has about the past are a fascinating reflection on how different incidents can be seen with completely different viewpoints, and the contrasting accounts about each memory are the highlight of the performance. It is here where additional techniques could be introduced, be it external props, or more creativity with costume and backdrops. By adding something extra, the nostalgia and contrast could be really elevated, away from just another soul-baring monologue.
The intimate space and wordy script would be a challenge for any seasoned actor, so it is no surprise that there are quite a few stumbles throughout each scene. While it initially seems as though the hesitations are part of the characters, over time it becomes clear that instead they are simple mistakes that could be avoided. Although understandable and forgivable in a play that only runs for two nights, it ruins the flow at times and takes the momentum away from some of the pivotal scenes that require a sharp focus.
With a bit more passion and practice this short play could be a real hit. The interweaving monologues about a relationship turning sour may not be a recipe for romance, but their startling realness will definitely give you food for thought.
Runs until 14 February 2022
