Reviewed by Jordan D'Arcy
Braindead, written and directed by Izzy Stonehouse, has just finished its season at the Blue Room Theatre as a part of its Summer Nights programme this year.
This show is nothing short of ingenious in concept, which was quaint. Harriet has rejoined her family after a year of “treatment” and “recovery”. Just what she was recovering from is only alluded to until very near the end of the play, where Mum says she doesn’t want to mention “the Z word” – which is left to the audience to infer as being “zombie”. It’s explained that Harriet was recovering from a type of encephalitis, which made her "not herself" for a period of time.
Braindead is set at an Australian family’s Christmas lunch. The vibe was set up by one of those annoying and kind of aggressive singing Santas sitting on the side table that gives everyone walking past a fright when it all but screams Christmas Carols at them – an excellent bit that got a laugh every time. The family dynamic was very real and the comedic timing of every cast member was excellent. Eleanor Rowe was perfect as Mum, offended by the most menial things that, at times, don’t make sense, but she clearly has good intentions. Daniela Da Costa was excellent as Bronte, Harriet’s older sister. Matthew Bryan as Mark, Bronte’s husband, was also very good. Matthew and Daniela created a very real relationship dynamic between their two characters.
Anna Harris anchored the storyline as Harriet. There were a few moments where she had the opportunity to monologue and provide important exposition for the audience. I was unexpectedly brought to tears in one of them.
The soundscape was really cleverly designed, aided by clever lighting design (both by Anaïs Asotoff). There were a few moments of introspection from Harriet, the aforementioned monologues, which were made clear by the use of the soundscape and a spotlight on just her face.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable production. I really hope this show is performed again – I will come back to watch it every time.
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