Image: Photo by Ellis Parrinder
Belvoir’s latest production – Persona – isn’t the sort of lighthearted evening out that everyone will enjoy.
The play, based on a film by Ingmar Bergman, is confronting and intense. A woman’s decision to fall silent is juxtaposed by another’s inability to shut up, and the mind games and violence that ensues show that neither is quite what she seems.
Directed by Adena Jacobs, Persona is filled with beautiful scenes on a gorgeous stage. Both Meredith Penman and Karen Sibbing shine in the rawness of their performances as Elizabeth and Alma, giving it their all and keeping the audience engaged throughout.
If there is one criticism it is perhaps that there is too much nudity, distracting from the characters’ words for what seems like unnecessary shock value; unfortunately overwhelming what is otherwise a stunningly beautiful play worth seeing. (LZ)
Until Aug 18, Belvoir St Theatre, 25 Belvoir St, Surry Hills, $65, (02) 9699 3444, belvoir.com.au
