Speaking in Tongues

This is an intriguing play by playwright Andrew Bovell. Set in Sydney, Bovell presents two contrasting acts linked by the mysterious disappearance of a woman. In the first act we meet two unfaithful couples embroiled in their own personal misery. In the second act, only two of the first act characters re-emerge to continue the story. Director Kevin West has wisely opted for a minimal set to tell this complex tale. The direction is smooth, with the actors playing their roles with assurance. Warren Clements (Pete) and Meg Stubbs (Jane) work well together as a couple facing marital problems. Kane Sarota (Leon) and Natalia Crowe (Sonja) also look good together as the other couple immersed in relationship problems. Voice projection was possibly the only flaw in otherwise good characterisations.

In the second act Sarah Urquhart, as the ill-fated Valerie, and Jodie Hogan (Sarah) gave excellent performances. Both actors had strong stage presence. There was also good supporting work from Piers Freeman (Neil), Kinloch Anstiss (Nick) and Ron Smith (John) in character roles.

Bovell has relied on a number of convenient coincidences to link the two acts together, which at times stretched credibility. However, Speaking in Tongues is a different play told in an unusual way. Director Kevin West and his fine cast got to grips with this and produced a compelling drama.

Ken Cotterill