A quiet and nervous feeling falls over the Sumner Theatre as the crowd settles in for 'West Gate', a show that they know will deliver a heavy emotional punch.
But the mood quickly shifts and is replaced by the beautiful humour that comes from authentic human spirit as we meet the cast of characters brought together to share this important story. Dennis McIntosh has developed a wonderful script that paints a rich picture of life and community in Melbourne in 1970, leading up to the tragedy of the West Gate bridge collapse. By speaking to the families of those involved in the heart-breaking event, he has created a rich tapestry of authentic stories which unfold beautifully on stage, gently revealing parts of a pivotal moment in Melbourne history.
A cast of eight phenomenal performers are all that is needed to bring the powerful script to life. Several intertwined storylines unfold, revealing multiple aspects of the historical moment; the construction company and engineers shifting blame, the union workers negotiating safety and the everyday blokes just trying to do a job and get home. Two central characters, Victor (Steve Bastoni) and Young Scrapper (Darcy Kent) are expertly used to not just share the story of what happed at the West Gate but to position the class and culture dynamics that were so key to both Melbourne and Australia’s identity at the time. Both Bastoni and Kent shape their characters with the incredible heart and strength that is so needed in representing the legacy of the 35 men whose lives were lost in the tragedy. As the story unfolds, we are told just enough about these men, their lives, and families to prepare our hearts to be shattered when the inevitable moment of disaster strikes.
Image © Pia Johnson
The set design features a simple looming column in the middle of the stage representing the bridge. Clever use of the lighting rig being lifted and brought down creates the feeling of moving up into the dizzying heights in which the vulnerable workers sat doing their jobs. Soundscapes also play an important part in creating a captivating experience that makes this show work so well. All creative elements of this show are incredibly well thought-out and deliberately pieced together to work in seamless cohesion.
To see stories that represent our history and moments that have shaped us play out on stage is always special.
'West Gate' is a show that will mean so much to many families who have a connection a moment that many would rather forget, a moment which many never will be able to forget and a moment which we should remember, not just for the lives lost but for the lessons learned and the compassion that can be found in the human spirit.
'West Gate' is equally beautiful and profound, a well-executed show that reminds us of the power of theatre.
