Kate’s Score;4.5 love songs
The 1960’s happened to theme music supplied by the Beatles, the Rolling Stones and Dusty Springfield; societal norms were challenged, overturned and freedom became a catchword. But not for homosexuals. If you were not “straight” you were reviled, criminalised and sometimes subjected to electric shock aversion therapy. Against that background sits Kathrine Smith’s All I See Is You – a paean to those who had the courage to be true unto themselves.
It is an oddly compelling love story of Bobby and Ralph who although drawn to each other with a desire which reaches beyond the physical, deal with their sexuality and relationship very differently. Working class Bobby embraces his sexuality and explores it, more secure in the acceptance and support of his mother. Ralph, from a more aspirational class and burdened with a family in denial, struggles to hide behind the façade he has built. This difference in their backgrounds serves to heighten the conflict; adding to the burden and fear in their story.
Director Ben Occhipinti’s hand is light, thankfully. A simple story simply told using verbatim techniques, he had the understanding of text not to load the play with unnecessary staging but with delicate guidance, allowing the actors to bring the story to the audience in an intimate space.
It is a vulnerable and sincere performance from both Ciaran Griffiths as Bobby and Christian Edwards as Ralph. It is just these two in the empty black box of the stage; they have nothing but their talent and masterly skill to break our hearts. Compelling, engaging performances which elicit laughter, sympathy and finally, a single, solitary tear from this audience member.
One goes to the Fringe in hopes of finding the odd gem. This is a rather beautifully cut diamond
Kate Stratford – On The Town
17 – 21 Sep 2019
Venue: The Old 505 Theatre
Theatre Company: Queer Street Productions
Duration: Approx 60 min (no interval)
Ticket Prices:
Standard $35
Concession $30
Plus booking fee
plus booking fee
Wed – Sat 9:30pm
