Review: Coal Mine's THE RIVER is the Epitome of Indie Theatre

If you're unfamiliar with The Coal Mine, venture off to Toronto's east-end for the epitome of indie theatre. Though their permanent space is currently under renovation the new independent theatre company, entering their second season, shines in their temporary space in the heart of the Danforth. Described as an Off-Off-Broadway experience, The Coal Mine plays to 80 seats a night - this intimate, high-quality and raw theatrical experience is unlike any other.

Founded by Artistic Curator Ted Dykstra and Artistic Producer Diana Bentley, The Coal Mine is launching their second season with the Canadian premiere of Jez Butterworth's THE RIVER. Directed by Ted Dykstra, the production stars David Ferry, Jane Spidell and Dani Kind.

A captivating, dark and tense story about the lingering influence that past relationships have on the present. Audiences are brought into the world of a man as he interacts with what seems to be an innocent and budding romance with a woman. As the plot unravels, this innocent story quickly becomes chilling and disturbing and his interactions become intertwined with another woman. Jane Spidell and Dani Kind's characters' interchange between scenes setting the pace for mystery and intrigue.

David Ferry is masterful in commanding the intimate stage - his undeniable chemistry with both women will leave you in chills. The raw emotion in his performance carries the play and elevates this production to be first-class. Together with Jane Spidell and Dani Kind, the cast are able to play on the silence, the nuances and the subtlety in the work to create tension and vulnerability on the stage. The 80-minute production effortlessly captivates and keeps you guessing until its chilling final scene.

I wasn't sure how a small independent theatre would adapt one of the buzziest plays of last year's Broadway season, but The Coal Mine Theatre is successful in selecting works that fit their artistic capabilities. Without being unnecesarily ambitious, they continue to push the boundaries of theatre and set the bar for what indie theatre can and should be. The intimate set is beautifully decorated, lit and used; the audience is immersed in captivating storytelling and in the presence of top-notch actors. If this is what The Coal Mine Theatre can create in the chaos of relocating venues, I cannot wait to see what the rest of the season has to offer.

THE RIVER plays at The Coal Mine Theatre's temporary location at 982 Danforth Avenue, Toronto until November 22. For tickets and more information visit www.coalminetheatre.com.

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