Presented by GMT International Productions
Reviewed 9 October 2013
This is a solo show yet it is certainly not about one character or one focus. Gavin Robertson gives a brilliant and comfortable performance as he takes us on an amazing, intricate journey that explores the connections between being single and coping with its realities, how the Universe started, the solitude of a hit man, and through a person with Alzheimer’s disease, we consider if a sufferer even know anything is wrong.
The Crusoe connection relates to the fact that in a busy urban world we can still be completely alone and at the mercy or our own thoughts, dreams, fears and insecurities, and be just as worse of as the next person. Unity in being alone almost. Gavin Robertson is an accomplished writer, director, theatre producer and performer, and with the language of mime, well-chosen background music and some simple lighting cues he gives a worldly and mesmerising performance as he portrays several characters completely separate to each other, yet their stories unfold together on a simple bleak and open floor space with just one simple prop.
Among the darkness and satire there is certainly comedy. Robertson works with the audience reactions at any opportunity without breaking character, and the upbeat tempo and pace keeps us both entertained and intrigued as to what could possibly happen next. Initially it was difficult to understand what was happening but this is a one actor play so you have to be just a little respectful and patient as the theme reveals itself in a cinematic way. While you could have different performers for each character, I think it does work best as a solo performance so that the focus is only on that one actor with many faces.
Interestingly enough, although the theme is somewhat dark, it is surprisingly uplifting to come away knowing that we are not alone in our fears, and that the question of how and why are we here is now a little less perplexing.
Reviewed by Brett A.Trimboli
Venue: The Forge, Marryatville High School, Kensington Road (off-street parking available via The Crescent)
Season: 9 – 18 October 2013
Duration: 60 minutes
Tickets: $15 – $25
Bookings: Online through DramaTix or BASS, or at the door.
Photo Credit: GMT Productions International
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