THEATRE: STOCKHOLM
Complex physicality and quality production are the big stars in Bryony Lavery’s Stockholm, a collaboration between the Sydney Theatre Company and Britain’s Frantic Assembly. Meet Todd (Socratis Otto) and Kali (Leeanna Walsman). Outwardly, they are a perfect couple. They cook fancy food, watch arthouse films, plan European holidays, have amazing sex and get excited about Ikea furniture. But like all relationships, their shiny-as-a-new-Smeg-fridge façade is not all that it seems. Stockholm begins with the pair about to embark on a holiday to the city of Stockholm. They’re celebrating Todd’s birthday, and are sickeningly happy. But as the story unravels, it becomes clear their holiday destination not only represents all they aesthetically adore, but also carries the name of the psychological syndrome that describes their own destructive relationship. Through a blend of third person narrative, unique set and lighting design, and inspired movement sequences, the couple’s loving front is stripped bare to reveal a frightening web of dependence, violence, fear and mistrust. Stockholm is a fast-paced performance that packs a punch with an intelligent and thought-provoking script. Walsman and Otto give strong, courageous performances, bringing authenticity to the emotional, unsettling discourse and maintaining a solid grip on the movement sequences. While the third person narrative is a little trying at times, especially for the first half of the show, it is the breathtaking choreography (thank you Scott Graham and Steven Hoggett) that’s the genuine stand out. The complexity of each movement sequence forces us to question whether Todd and Kali will make each difficult move; just like we wonder whether they’ll “make” their own difficult relationship. Stockholm is an intense, brave and insightful piece that’ll leave many audience members shifting uncomfortably in their seat over some all too familiar themes.
Until Apr 24, Sydney Theatre Company, Hickson Rd, Walsh Bay, $30-75, 9250 1777, sydneytheatre.com.au
