STC’s Orlando
Image: STC's Orlando. Photo by Prudence Upton.
The Sydney Theatre Company presents Sarah Ruhl’s theatrical take on Virginia Woolf’s Orlando, a strangely whimsical tale of a life lived over 300 years and in into two different genders.
Orlando (Jacqueline McKenzie) is a nobleman in the court of Elizabeth I who catches the eye of many, including the aged Queen (John Gaden) herself. Orlando’s journey of self-discovery unfolds over centuries and nations with debauchery, bad poetry, time travel, a new body and a devastating first love all along the way.
We first meet our protagonist as a slight but handsome 16-year-old boy; accompanied by a chorus-like gang of four male story tellers, his (eventually her) tale evolves through a simplistic, moving set punctuated by a central rotating staircase, shameless prop use, and luxe costumes which act to indicate the historical time. I quickly accepted this unusual arrangement and immersed myself in the performance.
Luisa Hastings Edge plays Sasha, the ravishing Russian beauty whom steals the heart of the young Orlando, her memory continuing to trouble him throughout his exceptionally long life. In this production Sasha is used as an ongoing touchstone, cleverly staged ice-skating sequences will have you envisioning her gliding across the frozen River Thames.
In a present society where the struggle for visibility of gender and identity has arguably reached boiling point, we rediscover Woolf’s enduringly popular story from 1928, which so casually showcases gender swapping and fluidity.
Familiarity with the novel isn’t necessary, but those who’ve already fallen in love with Woolf’s text will find extra enrichment. (AM)
Until Dec 19. Drama Theatre, Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay. From $58. Tickets & info: sydneytheatre.com.au or 02 9250 1777.
