By Four Four on the Floor
At La Mama, Carlton until Feb 18, 1996
Reviewer: Kate Herbert. Reviewed around 7 Feb 1996
Watching In A Nutshell is like crawling inside four heads and hearing their most peculiar, wicked, innermost thoughts.
We are observing that mind-demon who tells us to do the exciting, outrageous and dangerous things. It is the voice that says, "Kiss that person walking by " or "Jump off this cliff. Kill yourself. You know you want to."
It can be a lifesaver (the 20's swimwear is gorgeous) reviving us from coma, collapse, boredom, depression. Or it can be a killer.
This piece has a subtle dynamic and a simple, clear message. It is hilarious with lovely chorus clown work, energetic physicality and a warmth which makes you want to obey the "kiss a stranger" voice in your head.
Each actor is allowed to obsess a while in this piece devised by the four actors (Charlie Laidlaw, Rosina Ganon, Georgia Power, Kim Wilson) with director Greg Dyson.
Charlie Laidlaw's musings on a new mother's depression were made even more poignant by her own blossoming pregnancy. Kim Wilson's rambling obsession with ants and the universe was an eccentric moment.
Several a cappella songs were highlights and there were few loose spots in this charming show. It has joy, warmth, honesty and skill. It is really a good show!
By Kate Herbert
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