“Do not go gentle” is a multi-layered play that weaves its magic imperceptibly and lands with a “click” at the end. It’s beautiful, in many ways.
The staging is inspired. It reflects the nuances of the dialogue and the plot and supports the actors throughout.
Opera singer Marilyn Richardson set the tone with a beautiful aria and a stunning frock. My god, everyone I know wants one of those frocks. She, in her costumes and with her voice, lifted the play to ethereal heights.
Jennifer Flowers’ character “Wilson” was entrancing. She was the cheerful team member, seeing the bright side of every situation. Jennifer brought a fey quality to the show, and this was essential to its success.
What stuck out for me was the skill of the actors. They belonged on the stage. They’d spent years there, and they were able to reach out and embrace the audience. We felt safe throughout what, in the hands of younger actors, would be a very challenging plot.
Andrew Buchanan, Steven Grives, Christen O’Leary, Bruce Spence and William Zappa joined Marilyn and Jennifer to create magic.
The Artistic Director Daniel Evans, in the introduction to the program, says: “If you’re the kind of audience member that delights in surprise, dear friend, stop reading now.” I trusted him and didn’t inform myself of the plot beforehand. I recommend you do the same. It’s best met innocently.
The play is a little like a beautifully intricate and delicately crocheted doily, with many layers. It unfolds, showing its workmanship on one side, then on the other. It uplifts, it educates, and it forgives.
“Dialogue-rich”, “the second act was my favourite”, and “gee, it all makes sense now” were the responses from First Night audience members.
Highly recommended.
On at Billie Brown Theatre on Montague Road, South Brisbane until 30th August.
Book here: https://queenslandtheatre.com.au/plays/do-not-go-gentle
