3 STARS, October 31 – November 19. A humorous and energetic reflection on the perils of a capitalist world, says Alice Angeloni
Commenting on the relationship between debt and humanity is no easy task, but award-winning playwright Kieran Lynn’s comedy The Trap, has captured the perils of capitalism through a skilful combination of witty dialogue and powerful spacious moments.
Director Dan Ayling and the cast of four satirise the characters in a payday lending company, Debt Duck, that is facing tightening government regulation. Sarah Beaton's stage is realistic and simply set as an office with desks, chairs, a water dispenser, even detailed down to the scrunched-up papers in the rubbish bin.
The action starts in the middle of the night, when disgruntled employee Clem (Sophie Guiver) has convinced her slightly more moral colleague Tom (Jahvell Hall) to join her resolution to break into the office safe. Not going quite to plan, their gloriously dishevelled branch manager Alan (Andrew Macbean), arrives with similar intentions. Then Alan’s boss Meryl (Wendy Kweh) on the next wrung of Debt Duck’s management shows with the same intention. The result: a highly-strung, comical atmosphere where four employees of a dying company compete for cash in a bid to escape their own debt traps.
The non-linear plot slowly reveals the events that led each character to the office that night, and whether it’s an attempt to resolve a gambling debt, pay a mortgage, university fees or rent – each feel entitled to a bout of financial freedom.
In the cosy Omnibus Theatre, the audience feels part of the action – relishing in the rapport between characters and vividly experiencing the emotional ebbs and flows of good acting. Quick dialogue is well delivered and the small space is used effectively, especially as the powerful figure of Meryl hotly pursues her staff. In rare moments, humour is replaced with a more serious tone as characters deliver brief, suspenseful and reflective pieces.
Moral and ethical questions were touched on, but not explored. Characters were played well, but lacked depth. The play was good, almost great.
Covering themes that most definitely transcend national borders The Trap, which recently premiered in the US, invites us to consider our own place in the cycle and structures of the financial system. A light-hearted reminder, particularly poignant in the lead up to Christmas.
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