KEY POINTS:
It is probably safe to surmise that Sophie Dingemans is something of a control freak, having written, directed and designed the costumes and soundscape for Grace.
For the most part, I applaud her singular vision as Grace is an interesting night out.
The story is a mix of fact and fiction, based on experiences of the playwright's great-grandmother Grace Oakeshott, who faked her own death in London in 1907 so she could start afresh here in New Zealand. At just over an hour, it is an economical play that recreates the events leading up to Grace's dramatic decision.
As well as giving a peek into Grace's thought processes, the play delves into the politics of the era with debates and speeches about the suffrage and Fabian movements. There is also some salacious gossip, with Grace's sister Amber falling pregnant out of wedlock to writer H. G. Wells.
At times, the politics dominated a little too much, and while the show recreates the events leading to the fake death and the act itself, there are tantalising details left out - how did Grace get away with it, what happened once she came to New Zealand, and what of the people left behind?
But the dry tone of the piece is leavened by Dingemans' interesting physical approach, with the actors using graceful dance movements to highlight their inner feelings. Teapots and tables are used in interesting, unusual ways.
The cast of five young actors have their own high and low lights, although overall the Victorian setting seems to constrain the performances somewhat, with many emotions being held in check. Nicci Reuben was the most passionate, playing Grace as a woman who discovers the lover within the political fighter.
Brian Moore was twitchy and quirky as her unloved husband Harold, which was a nice contrast to Andrew Waterson's matinee idol-influenced turn as Grace's lover Walter. Jo Lees gave the earthiest performance as Grace's harlot sister and Michael Downey brought a suitable pompous arrogance to his multiple roles, including the cad Wells.
The soundscape, mixing music and real life effects, is a real highlight, adding extra emotion to the piece.
There is a bit of professional polish missing from the show but it is charming nonetheless and fans of fresh new theatre should get along.
