Image: Dion Mills and Ngaire Dawn Fair in The River: Photograph by Jodie Hutchinson.
“And the next day I went back to the river, and I took off my clothes and I dived in the water…” THE RIVER.
Like the schools of fish in the eponymous River, the latest from Red Stitch Actor’s Theatre is is teeming with secrets that come bubbling to the surface through pauses of such intensity, they are almost worthy of Harold Pinter. Acclaimed writer Jez Butterworth’s text is a perplexing and lyrical journey into the soul of a man searching for connection, which is given tremendous power in a restrained Australian premiere production, under the hands of director John Kachoyan, who has created, possibly the most intimate production the company has seen in a long time, (thanks to a traverse stage).
Here is where I would normally give a rundown on the basic premise but, in all fairness, it is probably best to go into this production blind. Too many hints to the play’s story would undermine the impact of Butterworth’s unique structure. But if I can give a clue at least, it’s like the bastard child of David Mamet’s The Woods and Jack Hibberd’s White with Wire Wheels and then given a complete structural make over. The night this reviewer was in attendance, there was audible surprise at the cleverness on display be the zealous ladies behind me. So pardon me my silence here, it’s for your own good, I promise.
Under Kachoyan’s deft hand underrated actor Dion Mills gives a quietly devastating performance while the terrific Ngaire Dawn Fair is customarily vibrant and magnetic, trying to wrench ANYTHING from a man too guarded by unspoken demons to say what he feels. Rounding out the cast is Christina O’Neill with understated beauty.
Technical elements are superb with lighting from Clare Springett bathing the stage in low key, moody orange while designer Chloe Greaves’ working set is spectacularly oppressive.
Mysterious, dreamlike and so intimate it feels like voyeurism, The River, is an experience not easily shaken off after the final bow. Those hungry for innovative, challenging yet accessible theatre this is for you. Don’t miss what is sure to be one of the high points in Melbourne’s theatrical year.
Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5
Writer:Jez Butterworth
Director:John Kachoyan
Set & Costumes: Chloe Greaves Lighting Designer: Clare Springett Composition & Sound: Christopher De Groot Assistant Director: Brodie Rowlands Stage Manager: Jacinta Anderson Assistant Stage Manager: Stella Dandolo
with Ngaire Dawn Fair, Dion Mills & Christina O’Neill
Red Stitch Actor’s Theatre
26 April – 28 May, 2016
