In Other Words - Koorliny Arts Centre

Reviewed by Kate O'Sullivan

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At just 70 minutes, In Other Words at Kooliny Arts Centre is a compact, emotionally charged piece of theatre that really stays with you after it finishes. Set in a simple black box space, the production leans into restraint rather than spectacle, which feels like the right call for a story that is so dependent on intimacy and emotional precision.

Grant Malcolm as Arthur and Natalie Burbage as Jane both give really considered, nuanced performances. There’s a strong sense of control in what they’re doing, but also a lot of emotional availability. They don’t overplay anything, which allows the relationship at the centre of the piece to feel grounded and believable. It’s the kind of work where small shifts in tone or pause carry a lot of weight.

The production handles its difficult subject matter with care. It never slips into being overly sentimental or heavy-handed. Instead, there’s a nice balance between light and dark throughout, with moments of humour and warmth sitting alongside some genuinely heartbreaking material. That contrast is what gives the emotional beats their impact, and by the end it’s not surprising that a number of audience members were visibly affected.

Lighting is generally very effective, particularly in how it uses colour to support changes in time and emotional state. Those shifts help orient us through the piece and subtly underline the internal journeys of the characters. There are a few moments where transitions feel a fraction early or late, and occasionally it’s slightly unclear whether we’re in a fourth-wall break or still within the scene due to closely related tones (soft yellow versus pink and yellow). Nothing major, more just refinement points that will likely settle as the run continues.

There are also a couple of practical considerations. Costume lengths should always be considered when an actor needs to stand from being on the ground, especially when in a skirt or dress. And with flat seating, sightlines can be a bit compromised when action drops to ground level, although it’s not a persistent issue.

Overall, it’s a thoughtful, well-judged production that trusts its material and its audience. Emotionally direct without being manipulative, and ultimately very affecting.

Reviewer note: Kate has previously worked with members of this cast and crew. Tickets for this review were provided by Koorliny Arts Centre.