When you think of Anton Chekhov, the words ‘humorous’ and ‘comedy’ very rarely spring to mind first to the modern-day viewer. However, with nuances and subtlety, Chekhov would argue otherwise. A prime example of his truly unknown comedic genius has been brought to life this week by The New Rep Theatre Co’s production of ‘The Sneeze’ at the Golden Goose Theatre.
Eight short scenes, each more farcical than the last. ‘The Sneeze’ takes audiences away from the outside world for two hours and showcases perfectly how comedy can be truly ageless. The timing and energy that bounced between the cast is something to be admired, and gives life to a production that time often forgets.
The staging is simple: seven actors, a few Ikea chairs and tables, and a backdrop; two chalkboards that provide jokes of their own. If there is one thing The New Rep does well, it’s showcase how theatre doesn’t need the biggest budget in the world, or the most insane sets, to captivate an audience's attention and provide a wonderful night of theatre - the true meaning of fringe productions.
A particular actor I want to highlight is Evie Butler. Throughout the entire piece, regardless of what role she is in, whether or not she is even speaking at all, Butler has a way of drawing you in and holding you with her. An entire scene of dialogue could be happening around her, and yet you will fall back to watching her subtle (and, at times, not so subtle) movements of comedic perfection. A particular moment of comedic genius comes in the scene titled ‘The Proposal’, where Butler’s inner intentions and actions are the heart of the humour in this piece. Through Butler’s performance, it is clear she has a real gift for comedy and was a standout for sure.
Range is often something actors struggle to break into: emotions steering us from side-splitting humour, to making us question our own life’s purpose at the drop of a (party) hat. However, this is not an issue actor Gruff Williams has to concern himself with. Within the space of one singular musical number (a parody of ‘No Woman, No Cry’ by Bob Marley about ovens and pies…), Williams goes from playing a clown with no sense of purpose (but an incredible talent for Shakespeare), who will pull at every heart string you have in ‘Swan Song’, to a father receiving a proposal from his neighbour to marry his daughter, “and all the rest of it”, in ‘The Proposal’. A scene so genuinely funny, you’ll want just two hours straight of that one dynamic alone. A very excellent performance.
Silent, physical comedy is a dying art form in modern-day media. It takes real skill not to ‘overplay the bit’ and really sell it for genuine acting. Sometimes it can be easy to slip into playing for the laughs, rather than the intention and natural humour that comes with such insane scenarios. However, if there is one reason alone to go and see this production, it is the title scene: ‘The Sneeze’. No dialogue, just ten minutes of prime examples of how physical theatre will forever be the staple in comedy. Williams, Butler, along with Iwan Morris and Olivia Baird, display their talents wonderfully for a remarkable performance.
Director Edward Neale really knows how to get the best out of his cast, giving everyone time to showcase their abilities and strengths. His creation and direction regarding the transition scenes were one of the highlights of the production - a unique take on Chekov’s truly uplifting play. The entire cast truly holds their own in this production. Their chemistry with one another is something to be commended. A very delightful evening at the theatre.
The Sneeze played at the Golden Goose Theatre until May 16
Photo Credits: Courtesy of the production
Reader Reviews
Videos
