“For the future”…
a play that you need to see. Right now.
The KXT is one of my favourite independent venues in Sydney; with its lamp-lit entrance, intimate size and traverse stage, it always creates a very personal and in this case, very powerful experience.
Exact time and setting of this story are not specific, but they do not need to be as we immediately identify the dystopic, post-Trump world that the characters exist in. Sharon’s (Danielle King) family life has decayed under a newly elected far-right government employing her troubled, extremist brother, Seth (Andre de Vanny). Sharon’s husband, Martin (Johnny Nasser) is a Lebanese-born Australian immigrant and through the microcosm of one family, Writer/Director Phillip James Rouse addresses what it means to live in a country plagued by racism and to have those meant to protect you, leave you out in the storm.
Rouse and Dramaturg, Nell Ranney have created a narrative that is told beautifully in non-sequential vignettes that hold the audience from opening to close of the play. There is such urgency in the writing and movement choreography of each character and this is matched by a superb cast. King and Nasser capture such an authentic chemistry onstage that makes de Vanny’s rage and intensity truly heartbreaking.
Production Designers Anna Gardiner and Martelle Hunt have made full use of the KXT performance space with a simple aesthetic that unites a stark postmodern world with a sense of natural erosion and decay and Sian James-Holland’s lighting design serves this perfectly. Rouse’s textured sound design also reflects this as we transition in and out of scenes with an array of nostalgic tracks and heavy undercurrent soundscapes.
Night Slows Down does not have a timestamp or specific setting, but it has never felt more relevant than right now. Themes – whilst sensationalised – are far too relatable for comfort. This show must be seen by as many eyes as possible.
M.Osborn – Theatre Now & On The Town
