Air is a new play by writer Joanna Erskine set in community radio station RIP where we listen throughout the play to the mellifluous voice of Annabel (Eloise Snape), the central character, reading the death notices of people in Sydney. The readings throughout play were evocative and injected humor (sometimes black) as well as pathos.
The comedy within this new work was effective and all actors handled their roles well. They had the audience laughing throughout.
Callers needing to talk to or about their loved ones continually phoned much to the annoyance of Annabel who wanted to maintain her isolated existence. One of these callers was Mabel (Diana McLean). This character in particular was well written and very well acted. However, Mabel’s story did not seem to have relevance to Annabel’s plight and was used only as a device to force Annabelle to connect with others and perhaps accept death.
I found it difficult to feel for Annabel and her struggle to stay shut off from her family and life. Her resentment and anger towards her family sometimes alienated me rather than drew me to her in sympathy. Perhaps more could have been made of the family revelation and her emotional response at the play’s end.
The supernatural elements in the play were sometimes confusing and tested this reviewer’s suspension of disbelief. The ‘ghost’ of her father informing her of facts not known to her particularly jarred.
The sound effects and lighting were exactly right; not intrusive unless needed symbolically. I particularly liked John Dean (Tel Benjamin) plugging in the extension cord. Costumes were all appropriate and the simple set design created the ambiance of a basic community radio station. The clever use of the hanging microphones as telephones complemented the set.
The director (Anthony Skuse) did a good job with this work and it was a shame that, although there were some engaging and original ideas, the play itself did not quite hit the mark.
Liz O’Toole – Theatre Now
Photos: Mansoor Noor
