Review: THE PUNTER'S SIREN Captures The Insecurities And Neuroses The Plague Everyone In Love And Lust

Wednesday 17th February 2016, 7:30pm Blood Moon Theatre, Kings Cross

Gina Schien has created a work that speaks to all people, regardless of gender or persuasion in the fabulously funny THE PUNTER'S SIREN. The hang-ups, the self-doubt and the voices in our heads are all exposed in this fabulous one act play directed by Stephen Carnell.

A somewhat timid 30 something Helen (Jacqui Robson) is stood up by her friend on her first trip to the races. She's tapped on the shoulder by a beautiful young woman with a blonde bouffant, fitted virginal white mini dress and knotted string of pearls and is immediately in lust. The prospect of satisfying the beast below drives Helen to ignore sense and reason with hilarious results. The intimate stage of Blood Moon Theatre, at the rear of The World Bar, is sparsely dressed with bar tables, a couple of chairs and velvet curtains covering the walls. Aside from the costuming which is the only real indicator of the 1960's era, this could be a contemporary setting.

Robson is brilliant as Helen who narrates her thoughts and feelings as she recalls the events of the afternoon. She tells her story to the audience, taking on the tones of the voices in her head, her daydreams, self-doubt and neuroses. Schien has created a character which everyone can relate to. Whilst presented as a lesbian, Helen's feelings of Lust at first sight could just as easily be the thoughts and fears of a straight woman, a straight man or a gay man. We've all had those feelings when we've seen someone that gets the pulse racing and carnal thoughts flowing and similarly, except possibly for the really self-assured and confident, have had the sinking worry that the object our affection doesn't share the attraction. Robson presents Helen with a wonderful physicality as she recalls her encounter in the same way actions seem more pronounced on reflection but refrain from being a caricature.

Laura Viskovich creates the captivating blonde, the Siren, Linda, as a cool, seemingly unattainable goddess. For the most part, Linda is silent as the play is Helen's memory, only speaking when Helen recalls her words. When given voice, Linda is given a sultry seductive tone. There is a smooth fluidity to Viskovich's movements, expressing Helen's initial impression of Linda's ethereal unattainability.

THE PUNTER'S SIREN exposes human feelings and desires with humor as relatable situations play out whilst adding in an unexpected twist. Carnell's direction ensures that the pace is maintained, adding to Helen's desire to recount her experience. Lust, trust, money and manipulation combine for an enjoyable short play that suggests that if you are going to follow your desire, at least keep an eye on your cash.

THE PUNTER'S SIREN

Blood Moon Theatre

The World Bar 24 Bayswater Rd, Kings Cross

17 February - 4 March (Wed - Sat) 7:30pm

5 March (Sat) 3pm

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