TRAINSPOTTING - Subiaco Arts Centre - 2 more shows

You have 2 more chances to catch the double act of Unattainable and Trainspotting while it is in the cosy studio at the Subiaco Arts Centre.

Both plays are greatly enhanced by the intimate space. They share a common dynamic in that they are both very physical plays, both confronting in very different ways and both incredibly worthwhile of your evening out.

Unattainable is on the program Friday night only (Trainspotting tickets on Saturday are just $10). This original play by Jessica Messenger has contemporary themes around social networking, body image and relationships.  Often hilarious but also quite moving at times, I found it easy to relate to. Fast paced and dynamic, the 3 cast members portrayed clichéd images and bandied about social icons. The characters were endearing and the casting was ideal. Go check it out for yourself.

There was no weak link in Trainspotting on any level.  Considering both performance and production aspects, it was solid all round.  A blend of storytelling and serious action kept us engaged and enthralled by the characters and their often horrific journeys.

There’s simulated drug use and plenty of swearing, which contributed to the realistic atmosphere. Dan Kershaw did a fantastic job in the role of Mark.  He showed a great deal of conviction, especially in the scene where he was going through detox. Also having some stellar moments was Clinton Ward-Horner in the role of “Sick Boy”. So committed was he that he took a real punch from Murray Jackson and made it back moments later for the curtain call with a tissue stuck up his nose to stop the blood flow.

Krysia Wiechecki gave a range of very convincing performances, her natural and heartbreaking portrayal of Ali was one of the most gripping moments of the performance for me. She also played a number of other roles. All four cast members actually covered a wide range of supporting characters.

Although they generally had a command on their Scottish accents, there were a few slips but I wouldn’t say it detracted from the performance and their dialogue was easily understood.

Danni Ashton’s talent for directing drama is no secret. She kept the pace moving and ensured that storytelling was the major focus. It’s constantly visually engaging and created a sense of audience inclusion.

Although tragic in many ways, the story is imbued with a sense of hope. Each audience member is sure to take something different out of it.