BECKY SHAW

In this sharply written comedy, by award-winning American playwright Gina Gionfriddo, the humour crackles and draws you in like a moth to a flame.

Seemingly volatile Becky (Anna Lise Phillips) is set up – by Suzanna (Catherine Moore) and Andrew (Matthew Zeremes) – with no-nonsense financier Max (Rupert Reid), who is ever economic, not only with money but with his point-blank barbs. In the action that ensues, we witness a sardonic world of facts, figures and images; where human interactions and relationships are transactions relative to need, and their resilience (or not) dependent on perception. Also, empathy is skewed or a bit off-key amongst this crew.

The performances complement the script’s precision, with standouts from Reid and Phillips. And Sandy Gore as the matriarch who delivers twisted-but-so-true whip-smart wisdom with equanimity is a treat. Becky Shaw provides an entertaining window into the delicate lines of human pleasure, damage, mercy, privacy and intimacy.

Until Dec 1, Ensemble Theatre, 78 McDougall Street, Kirribilli, $29-69, 9929 0644, ensemble.com.au