There are many stories which have come out of Africa but for westerners, they have been of the white perspective. Outhouse Theatre Co throws down the gauntlet with a narrative which dares us. Provokes us.
The Rolling Stone, in Chris Urch’s stunning play, is a Ugandan newspaper which self-righteously outs homosexuals (with or without proof) and then abandons them to the violent consequences society will inflict upon those who are “other”.
Dembe (Elijah Williams) is a young Christian man; part of a family and neighbourhood who think of themselves as god-fearing, exemplary Christians. He is also gay. A sin acceptably punishable by death in this same community. His struggle to reconcile his beliefs with his authentic self is tested when he falls in love with Sam (Damon Manns), a half Northern Irish, half-Ugandan doctor working in the area. From the beginning, the performances and stage chemistry between these two actors draws us in; nuanced, strong and utterly engaging. But their performances are not isolated. Every member of the ensemble brings something remarkable to this production. As Naome, Henrietta Amevor, is sentenced to silence for the play. We are never told of the trauma which brought this on but Amevor’s portrayal leaves us in no doubt. Zufi Emerson encapsulates frustration of women who live with the illusion of choice and Mandela Mathia is compelling, if not a little frightening as Joe, newly appointed pastor. Nancy Denis gives us the malicious person we love to hate, even if we do understand their motives.
The design elements bring the story together seamlessly. Isabel Hudson (set), Sian James-Holland (lighting) and Nate Edmundson (sound) have fused together all elements to provide a space in which the pain, love and atrocity play out.
Director Adam Cook has said in the programme notes “Human beings should be allowed to celebrate their true authentic selves without having their brains dashed out with a hammer” (It brings to mind the gay-hate killings in Sydney in the 80’s) The Rolling Stone underscores this without sentimentality; there is an objective approach which compels us to consider just how high the stakes are. Cook has a firm hand on the play and a clear vision, moments of humour are beautifully placed to that the story is never maudlin. Transitions keep us on the hook.
There are many issues here. (I am reminded of The Handmaid’s Tale, in some ways and the emotions that engenders in us.) It is not only Dembe’s story which is explored. Urch have given us a complete group, each struggling with their identity; their faith; societal expectations; their duty; their reputations; atrocities committed in the name of religion and their place in the universal scheme of things. Yet it is not piecemeal. Both the writer and production have welded the unwieldy into a memorable night of theatre.
In the end, out of Africa, the West or the East, we, as humans, must be held accountable for atrocities done to our fellow humans. Or we fail in our humanity.
Kate Stratford – On The Town
Photo Credit: Clare Hawley
The Rolling Stone
Chris Urch
5 – 21 July 2018
Tue – Sat 7:30pm
Sat matinee 2pm
Venue: Seymour: Reginald
Theatre Company: Outhouse Theatre Co and Seymour Centre present
Duration: 2hrs, 5 min (including interval)
★★★★★ “A stunner… packed with lines that sing, slaps that sting & scenes that will break your heart.” – Time Out
Leading independent company, Outhouse Theatre Co (Dry Land, The Aliens, 4 Minutes 12 Seconds) presents the Australian premiere of The Rolling Stone by rising British playwriting star, Chris Urch.
Dembe and Sam have been seeing each other for a while. They should be wondering where this is going and when to introduce each other to their families. But they’re gay and this is Uganda. The consequences of their relationship being discovered will be violent and explosive. Especially for Dembe, whose brother goes into the pulpit each week to denounce the evils of one man loving another.
In some parts of the world, being gay can get you killed and The Rolling Stone could not be more timely. Urch has crafted a powerful and gripping play where family, faith and paranoia collide. Shining a light on bigotry and the battle to be yourself in an unforgiving society, it is a play for our challenging times.
Helmed by acclaimed director Adam Cook (Much Ado About Nothing and A Doll’s House for Sport for Jove, The Motherf*cker with the Hat for Workhorse Theatre, Daylight Saving for Darlinghurst Theatre Company), The Rolling Stone is an exciting chance for Sydney audiences to discover a major, new voice.
Winner of a Bruntwood Prize for Playwriting
Nominated for 6 Off-West End Awards including Best New Play
Guardian Top 10 Theatre of 2015
Nominated for Best New Play at the Manchester Theatre Awards
“Scorching, sweat-drenched intensity.” The Times
“Could hardly be more timely.” The Guardian“Packs a devastating emotional punch.” The Independent
“Chris Urch is already becoming one of British theatre’s major talents.” Whatsonstage
Warning: This performance contains adult themes, coarse language, sexual references and haze. Recommended for ages 15+
Filming and photography not permitted.
Total lockout applies – latecomers will not be admitted to the theatre.
Ticket Prices
Adult $42
Concession $35
Previews $30
