Almost any time you see a show in Brisbane Powerhouse’s Visy Theatre, you are guaranteed a theatre experience that defies generic conventions.
Topology’s ‘Share House’ did not disappoint in this way, with its strong emphasis on physical theatre, minimalism and most importantly, its use of music. The concept was simple, but effective; take away the dialogue and allow music to tell the story.
Source: White Moth PhotographyThe only problem with Topology’s ‘Share House’, however, was that there really wasn’t much story at all. Although the use of music in the play was undeniably engaging, with an eclectic ensemble including violin, viola, piano, double bass and saxophone, the absence of a strong story to support the intricate music left something to be desired.
The story of ‘Share House’ is a basic day in the life of a grungy group of musicians who are forced to move out after one of them carelessly leaves a cigarette alight when they all go to bed and…well, I won’t spoil that part.
Through the rich musical score we experience the band’s feelings of depression and monotony in their share-housing situation. Music is also used to demonstrate the relationships between the characters, whether they’re good friends or enemies.
Source: White Moth PhotographyThe actors use their instruments to speak to each other, quite literally exchanging notes during a confrontation scene when one character is identified as the careless cigarette-smoking culprit.
Majestic lighting also accompanies the music to further display the characters’ emotions, turning a deep red when the characters are all experiencing inner-turmoil.
While the music is full-bodied and poignant, and the actors manage to express their characters’ emotions through facial expressions and body language without becoming caricatures, it still felt like something was missing from ‘Share House’.
