We know we are in the presence of two children because of the Barbie doll, the slide and their nagging each other in that way children do. Their exact age will be revealed later. Within all this there is an oasis of time, we are in the playground, but the outside world is closing in, while Lara and Rosie are too young for the grown up talk at the table beyond, but feel grown up in their own right in Joyce Dignam's new play.They try to make sense of their world, the things that they observe despite the cracks they sense around them. The only certainty is that something is not right. Their play and conversations morphs into re-enactments of times with their mother, or their parents relationship while playing 'Mammys and Daddys' before childhood takes over. Humour and bright lights gives us a sense of calm and ease, maybe it is simply all talk. But when the flashes occur, we all realise it isn't, it is simply a way to try and understand grown ups, and failing.
All of this is done with a lightness, even the acting causes wonder as to their ages. It is not the typical adults playing children style; at times it feels they might be very young, but then they do feel grown up. The gap between children and parents is not as wide as we might suspect. Ali Hardiman gives us the feel of growing up mixed with the glare of childhood, while Tara Maguire's Rosie might feel tough but has a vulnerability, bringing her to rely on her older sister, culminating in a touching finish. The connection between the two works very well.
The play, directed by Dignam and Méabh Hennelly, doesn't go for intensity, opting for a lightness of touch; the fizzy drinks on a sunny day approach. It is the better for this, making the darkness more ominous when it does encroach on the summer day. It is an interesting work brought to life well, and brings us into this world, giving fresh breath to the theme, dotted with humour along the way, making it very engaging.
The play, directed by Dignam and Méabh Hennelly, doesn't go for intensity, opting for a lightness of touch; the fizzy drinks on a sunny day approach. It is the better for this, making the darkness more ominous when it does encroach on the summer day. It is an interesting work brought to life well, and brings us into this world, giving fresh breath to the theme, dotted with humour along the way, making it very engaging.
Runs Until: April 8th 2017
Written by Joyce Dignam
Directors: Joyce Dignam & Méabh Hennelly
Cast:
Lara - Ali Hardiman
Rosie Tara Maguire
Producer - Kit Geraghty
Lighting Design - Shane Gill
Poster Image - Luka Costello
Stage Manager/Composer - Conrad Jones-Brangan
Producer - Kit Geraghty
Lighting Design - Shane Gill
Poster Image - Luka Costello
Stage Manager/Composer - Conrad Jones-Brangan