Dennis

Sometimes when reviewing one comes across a piece that suffers from prolix, but that definitely can’t be said of the heart-warming tale of Dennis. It was first performed as part of the Short + Sweet Festival – an event created to give a platform to new and emerging works – and recently re-emerged on the Powerhouse stage as part of the Gala Final in which acts were judged and considered for awards.

The performance by Clint Bolster was very well paced, nuanced and imaginative theatre. That’s quite a feat considering he was working in a full mask without any dialogue. Mime is hard enough, but to add a mask into the scenario definitely would have taken his degree of difficulty to the next level.

Clint’s movements were precise and well-rehearsed. At times the choreography had the smooth grace of a dancer. You really got the sense of the personality of his character. His gait, gestures and decisions clearly communicated Dennis’ inner thoughts and anxieties.

The story is of a lonely-heart waiting for a dinner date to arrive. You see his nervous preparation, his hope and the moment he gives up on love. It’s really amazing how such a moving story was so well told without facial or vocal expressions. The story is also peppered with slapstick comedy to balance the sadder.

“Mask theatre connects directly to the heart,” Clint said, “It doesn’t dominate. Because it’s non-verbal, it transcends language, which is extremely engaging and enables us to break down barriers and communicate to and connect with people from all walks of life.”

The overall story’s theme was that of hope and it definitely appealed to the romantics in the audience most of all. If, like Dennis you’ve not yet given up on love, it’s well worth catching Clint in action next time he performs this piece.

Kiesten McCauley