The Talk

The Last Great Hunt’s The Talk, written and directed by Gita Bezard, is as its subtitle declares “more than just the birds and the bees”. In a world of sexting, the dark web and porn available on your iPhone, is “the talk” from your parents and teachers enough anymore? Was it ever enough?

Three exciting and enigmatic young performers play a group of 15 year old girls, as well as a variety of other characters. 

Cassidy Dunn plays central character Eva, who much to her friends’ delight has acquired a “reputation”. Eva is underwhelmed by her sexual experience and seeks more meaning, but nobody seems to be able to help her. Despite maintaining the youth and freshness of her character, Cassidy’s performance is mature and layered, and much of the success of the show is due to our empathy with Eva.

Megan Hunter and Christina Odam complete the ensemble cast, playing some delightful and often off-beat characters. Especially memorable are Megan Hunter’s struggling mother and awkward schoolboy, and Christina Odam’s stressed teacher and knowledgeable older friend. 

The trio also sing throughout (lovely harmonies and pretty voices) with songs that are great choices and highlight the story. Ben Collins’ sound design and musical arrangement is excellent and allows the well chosen “mashups” and medleys to flow smoothly. Rozina Suliman has created a candy coloured set that is subtly sexual and appropriately bright and fun. Karen Cook’s lighting design allows the action and multiple scenes to flow seamlessly. 

The Talk contains vital messages - especially for young women, including the importance of your own sexual pleasure and your right to own it. A show with broad appeal that would resonate particularly well with teens and twenties. I highly recommend getting along in the last couple of days and gifting a ticket to a young person of your acquaintance. I am hoping that the show has a future life - perhaps as a schools’ tour. It deserves to be seen.

Kimberley Shaw

Photographer: Daniel James Grant