An original and interesting piece which I would recommend seeing.
From the outset, a large amount of stage combat is employed to great effect and in the most skilled manner I have personally seen on the fringe. Its use acts to quicken the pace of the story and add a constant element of threat which might otherwise be lacking. The only downfall to this is it might be a bit too casually applied on occasion which then somewhat detracts from the threat level.
Ivan Comisso as the protagonist, Liam, consistently gives us engaged, truthful acting whilst deftly dropping the occasional witty line in with ease. He holds the central story with strength and compassion and is a delight to watch, giving this violent tale a human face.
Federico Moro as the violence-prone Trent, brother to Liam, gives a strong performance. Occasionally he dips out of his usual good quality of acting but also on occasion we see a glimmer of some truly beautiful moments in his delivery. If these stunning moments could be kept and the occasional glitches erased, this would be a knock-out performance from this physically blessed and handsome actor.
Virginia Byron plays the initially stereotypical quick-witted American wife with natural ease and is a pleasure to watch, supporting the ongoing action with style.
Tino Orsini is a hidden treasure in the cast. The quality of work from this performer is of such consistently high quality that it’s actually hard to notice. He is so naturalistic and yet delivers his comedic lines with such grace and easy humour that he is simply a joy to have on stage.
The story is an interesting one which pulls us in using the skilled cast to tell this tale of half-truths and deception. It’s an original and interesting piece which I would recommend seeing.
