This play explores the ways in which mental illness affects not only the sufferer, but the family and friends who surround them. Comprised of only three characters, this small production delicately and intelligently handles such a relevant social issue. We witness three personal struggles to understand and deal with a devastating disease, and the ways in which it can be so easily misunderstood.
The small venue in which this play is set adds to the intimate feel and is fitting for such a personal exploration into the psyche. The set is sparse: cardboard boxes as props, minimal lighting and a black backdrop allows the audience to concentrate fully on the three very skilful acting performances. As we later find out, the main event, Faye’s birthday party, is taking place off stage and her sister Leah and friend Ricky burst into the scene intermittently to convince her to go.
This slowly paced play (perhaps too slowly paced at the beginning) allows for real character development and growth. The tension gradually builds as the tone changes from one of light-heartedness, created by the delightfully funny, charming and endearing character of Ricky (Myer Wakefield), to one of distress and desperation. Faye, played by Immie Davies and Leah, played by Caitlin Hare, capture well the relationship between two sisters and both put in a touching performance. However, the interaction between Ricky and Leah wears a bit thin and remains one-dimensional in contrast to the growing complexity of the others.
Despite losing the audience’s attention in a couple of places, Shake the Dust is an engaging and enlightening play. All profit goes to Rethink, a charity designed to change attitudes and support those with mental illness. It’s definitely worth going to see this thought-provoking and insightful play and supporting a very worthy cause.
