In the Shadow of the Wild

‘In the Shadow of the Wild’ was written and directed by Alexa Taylor, a Murdoch University creative PhD student. It is produced by Renegade Productions and The Blue Room, and is showing at the Blue Room Studio until the 14^th June. The shows are at the earlier time of 6.30 pm. with a late show at 9.15 on Friday and Saturday.

The audience wander into a small room lined with white linen. There is a lone figure, painted and dressed in white, lying on the floor. Slowly she comes to life. The girl (Alexa Taylor) warmly invites you to her ‘space’. This is no ordinary space, at times it is total security to the girl at others times the walls reveal hidden people and threats.
            Slowly, your host shows you around, explaining how she has learnt handle anything that might lurk, from terrorists to an intimate stranger. Then the ‘space’ expands to include the marshland and even farther out, the red desert. The girl explains how one’s space can be anything from a confined area, even inside your body, to Australia as a country.

In previous performances, Alexa has performed some very dark parts, but here, again linked with the exciting and adventurous Renegade Production Company, she tackles the softer side of life. Her dialogue is, at times, almost poetical. The ethereal music and sound effects, coupled with the soft echo and reverberation of her voice immediately draw your interest. As she changes from one topic to another, she weaves all the episodes beautifully together. In this intimate acting space, her eyes capture the audience’s eyes, and you are charmed.

The simple but original set designed by Alexa Taylor, is supported by some wonderful lighting (Joe Lui) and sound (Matthew Marino), the overall effect is magical. This 60-minute, mood-filled, show flew by.