STRANGERS
BATS Theatre, The Heyday Dome, 1 Kent Tce, Wellington
23/10/2018 - 23/10/2018
Production Details
Strangers is a unique, unscripted comedy-drama devised by veteran improviser Jonathan Briden, exploring the moment when two strangers meet. It may be a fleeting moment of connection, the start of a whirlwind romance, or the beginning of a deadly rivalry.
Watch as our actors create beautiful moments of humour, heartbreak, and humanity in an unscripted exploration into the genesis of relationship, performed an ensemble cast from across NZIF 2018.
“Fantastically engaging… If Strangers comes to your town, I urge you to see it.” — Echoes from the Wings, Nelson Fringe 2018
Director Jonathan Briden (NZ) is an improvisor with over 30 years experience. He is the current Artistic Director of Impulse Theatre (Christchurch). His improvisation focuses on removing obligations so that the performer can explore and discover freely, fully engaged, and in the moment. Impulse Theatre is committed to creating innovative works of theatre through the art of improvisation.
The Heyday Dome at BATS Theatre, 1 Kent Terrace, Wellington
Tuesday, October 23, 2018
8:00pm
TIX $14-20 – BOOK NOW!
Theatre , Improv ,
1 hr
Intricate character arcs sculpted
Review by George Fenn 24th Oct 2018
The performers take the stage and read cards from a jar containing motivations: “I need to tidy”; “I am searching for enlightenment”; “I want sex”.
Six strangers meet each other around town. The premise is simple and creates a contemplative pace that rewards strong physicality and emotional offers. The character relationships are built from shared happenstance.
The strength of the performers is immediately evident as they don’t rush into conflict. They revel in the small talk which isn’t afforded in most improv formats where the aim is to establish as much as possible as soon as possible. This is assisted by lighting operator Darren Woods, ending scenes with a black out to give a steady rhythm to the show.
Not afraid to cut scenes early, the performers use this to push into even more interactions, sculpting intricate character arcs. Forced into finding new ways to contrast their personalities to create conflict and closure, they leave the audience smiling and contented.
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