Review: TRANSIENT, Bridewell Theatre
Photo credit: Jordan Pitt
One of life’s greatest mysteries is finding ‘the one’, a true companion and soul mate who will share our life with its inherent ups and downs. Some find that special someone quickly and live happily ever after. Others aren’t as fortunate and struggle with the vagaries of time and chance. They might chase the moment or just sit back and wait for that ‘sliding doors’ moment. But what if we meet the right person at seemingly the wrong time? This play, presented as part of the Camden Fringe Festival, explores the notion in a smartly written two-hander.
The story begins with Anika (Vedika Haralalka), suitcase in hand, surveying the wreckage of her relationship with Dan (Cezar Azanza). The narrative then gently works its way backwards tracing key events in their relationship. It finishes where it all started in Heathrow Airport’s arrivals lounge, with two immigrants aiming to start a new life. The highs and lows are captured in brief playlets within a 50-minute play. What brought them together, what drove them apart and why their relationship ultimately failed. Were they just two lost souls passing through each other’s lives, or was this a love that needlessly went to waste?
Telling a story in reverse isn’t as easy as it sounds. It has to clearly signpost events that are key to the plot. The middle section stays in the same place, but events surrounding the crux move around to heighten the tension. Azanza, doubling up as playwright, achieves this objective with relative ease, and receives sterling support from Haralalka as Anika. The characters are likeable and believable as two fish out of water. Both hold the attention with nothing more than a suitcase and sofa to support them. A natural chemistry between them enhances the strength of storytelling and engages with the audience.
Transient offers a tantalising glimpse of hindsight when relationships fail. If only we could hit a reset button in life; erase and rewind to the beginning, comfortable in the knowledge that mistakes we make can be avoided. Affairs of the heart will always be a popular subject in drama, because they plug into the emotions we all feel and understand. There is always reassurance in shared experience and the certainty there’s someone going through the same emotional turmoil. A solidly written piece with a good heart.
*** Three stars
Reviewed by: Brian Penn
Transient plays at the Bridewell Theatre until 13 August, with further info here.
