Reviewed by Kate O'Sullivan
Lucy Kirkwood’s award-winning play "The Children," which premiered in 2016, is a poignant exploration of climate change and its human toll. Inspired by the aftermath of the Fukushima disaster and the heroism of retirees who volunteered for radiation clean-up, the play delves into the complex consequences of environmental catastrophe. Black Swan Theatre Company’s production brings Kirkwood’s narrative to life with remarkable finesse.
The performances are nothing short of stellar. The cast displays exceptional chemistry, with their interactions marked by impeccable timing in both their sharp banter and the deliberate use of pauses and overlapping dialogue. This meticulous execution allows the play’s emotional weight to resonate deeply, making the characters' losses profoundly impactful for the audience. The scientific content of the play is also well-handled, balancing the gravity of the situation with clarity and avoiding overwhelming the audience with technical jargon.
Nicola Bartlett delivers a tour-de-force performance as Hazel, the character who faces the most significant losses throughout the play. Bartlett’s portrayal anchors the story, making Hazel’s struggles feel immediate and compelling. Caroline Brazier’s Rose serves as a perfect counterbalance, embodying a mix of vulnerability and strength with grace. Humphrey Bower shines as a charismatic foil to both women, adding depth to the narrative. His character’s revelations heighten the tension and stress of the situation. Amidst the heavy themes of death, haze, and radiation, the cast skillfully weaves in moments of comedy, offering necessary relief and keeping the characters relatable.
The set design effectively transforms the large stage into a more intimate space, emphasizing the ever-present impact of ‘The Wave’, the play’s ever-present reference to the disaster, in the surrounds of the smaller lounge room box set. This design choice enhances the sense of confinement and the inescapable nature of the characters' predicament. Lighting transitions between the play’s more comfortable, domestic scenes and its intense moments are expertly managed, with shifts from ‘homey’ lighting to harsher illumination accentuating key scenes and enhancing the emotional experience. The harshness also reinforces that the reality of the situation is inescapable and that there are no shadows to hide in.
Costuming is another strong aspect of the production. The costumes immediately convey the characters' traits, providing visual cues that enrich their portrayals. A late reveal, somewhat foreshadowed by a hairstyle choice, slightly diminishes its impact but is still a noteworthy element of the show.
At just 1 hour and 40 minutes, with no interval, "The Children" is a gripping and emotionally charged piece, containing coarse language, strong themes, and the use of herbal cigarettes. Black Swan Theatre Company’s rendition of Kirkwood’s work is a remarkable achievement, delivering a thought-provoking and deeply affecting theatre experience.
Reviewer Note: Tickets for this review were provided by the theatre company.
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