The Perth Festival has unveiled a thought-provoking live docu-drama titled POV at the Subiaco Arts Centre, challenging audiences to reconsider how much trust we place in children. This innovative production, reviewed by Tim Sadleir for The West Australian, delves into profound themes of mental illness and familial dynamics through a unique theatrical lens.
A Child in the Director's Chair
At the heart of POV is a self-assured 12-year-old character named Bub, who takes control of two unrehearsed adult actors, guiding them through their roles as Mum and Dad. Armed with a video camera, Bub films the adults for her documentary as they navigate paper scripts and screens, with one emotional scene involving lines fed via headphones. The production rotates actors nightly, adding a dynamic, unpredictable element to each performance.
Refreshing Casting Choices
It is refreshing to see the role of Bub entrusted to actual child actors, such as Yuna Ahn or Grace Tione, rather than the typical 20-somethings often seen on television. The young performer even receives a legally mandated six-minute break during the show, complete with snacks, highlighting the production's commitment to authenticity. In the reviewed performance, Alexandria Steffensen and Gibson Nolte portrayed Mum and Dad with remarkable skill, embodying their roles despite holding scripts.
Exploring Hard Subjects with Playfulness
The action unfolds both on stage and on camera, with Bub's documentary footage displayed in real-time on screens around the stage. Directed by Solomon Thomas and written by Mark Rogers, POV maintains a playful edge while tackling difficult topics. Scenes include dorky dances to Earth, Wind and Fire, arguments over school pickups, and impersonations of real-life documentarian Werner Herzog, whom Bub corresponds with.
The Core of Mental Health and Trust
Central to the narrative is Bub's struggle for understanding as her mother, a ceramic artist, battles bipolar disorder. Mum moves out temporarily, but the adults avoid explaining the situation to Bub, fearing it will upset her. This leads to a pivotal scene that repeats with actors switching roles, allowing each to experience Bub's perspective. When Dad claims Mum is just too sleepy to talk, Bub interprets it as You're just a kid. You can't handle this.
The production underscores a common parental dilemma: the desire to protect children from harsh truths versus the need for honest communication. By briefing the actor playing Mum to research bipolar disorder, POV suggests that finding language to explain mental health to a child can benefit everyone. It advocates for starting conversations rather than brushing issues under the carpet.
A Powerful Message of Inclusion
Ultimately, POV places a child centre stage and in control, sending a clear message that young people are ready to be included in difficult discussions. The production earns a strong four-star rating for its innovative approach and emotional depth. Running at the Subiaco Arts Centre until February 15, this Perth Festival offering is a must-see for theatre enthusiasts and anyone interested in the intersections of art, mental health, and family dynamics.
