Redstich Theatre brings all of the feels to their intimate venue with ‘You Got Older.’ The production is part dark comedy, part family drama, and billed as a coming-of-age story for adults. We met Mae, played by Emily Goddard, at a low point. She lost her job, her health insurance, and her boyfriend and moved back home with her ill father.
The casting was uniformly excellent. Goddard’s openness and vulnerability as Mae was so relatable. We are privy to everything – from her uncomfortable sexual fantasies to her fights with her father. Mark Yeates, Eva Seymour, and Penny Harpham, created a strong supporting ensemble as Mae’s siblings. The family dynamics were unbelievably believable. Lee Beckhurst and Jordan Fraser-Trumble’s characters juxtaposed each other nicely. Beckhurst’s awkward encounter with Mae was so realistic it’s cringe-worthy. While Fraser-Trumble embraced a 50 Shades of Grey fantasy cowboy character. Francis Greenslade anchored the drama as Mae’s ailing father.
Director Brett Cousins crafted the story beautifully. The dialogue flowed at a natural pace, which is not to say it dragged. Instead, the conversational tone extended the fourth wall and wrapped the audience in the characters’ reality. Speaking of the ‘fourth wall’ – it’s difficult to go to a production at Redstich without considering the scenic design. The venue’s tiny stage challenges designers and allows them to flex their creative muscles. In this production Sophie Woodward’s clever set transitioned between seasons and location, covering an outdoor garden, bedroom, bar, dining room, and hospital ward. The simple, country-style backdrop supported the action without drawing focus.
See this Australian premiere for a good laugh and a good cry.
-Jenny
Jenny S is an event adventurer. She has participated in arts festivals on three different continents (plus a couple of islands). When she’s not attending live shows, you can find her sampling the latest craft beer or sipping a creative cocktail.
You Got Older runs until 2 October at Redstitch Theatre. Book tickets here.
