Heart Lines

Locally written play Heart Lines examines a spiritual yet intangible bond between a heart transplant recipient and his unknown donor. Well portrayed by a young cast, this 70-minute play holds our attention throughout.

The play alternates between Noah, who is making a video message for the family of his donor, and a student share house, occupied by his yet undisclosed donor, and their friends. We begin to see connections spiritual, connective and actual between two young people on two sides of Australia.

A good-looking production, the set, well-constructed by Peter Blood and Ross Bertinshaw, is perhaps too well decorated for a “crappy share house”, but it makes pleasant viewing, while Michelle Sharp’s costumes are well chosen. Lars Jensen gives us good quality sound and lighting design.

Nick Stevenson is strong in the central role of Noah, more often than not delivering directly to audience (ostensibly to camera). Likable and affable, his delivery is heartfelt, and he anchors the production well. Brandon de Sousa provides good support as Noah’s best mate Pete, a larrikin tradie.

In the share house we meet lone female character Anna, a law student and dancer, played with depth by Poppy Lindell (sometimes a little softly spoken), and Anna’s less than ideal “boyfriend of sorts”, Jacob, a heavy drinker with a temper, believably portrayed by Travis Koch. Tim, a bright wordsmith is played with deep emotion by Jack Varley, while James, a happy-go-lucky musician and theatre arts student, is played convincingly and with layers by Oscar Shiel.

There is some well executed stage combat, well directed by Nastassja Norwood.

While the theme of Heart Lines is sad, as are some of the events, this is ultimately an uplifting theatre piece that is an enjoyable watch. Not receiving the audiences it deserves in this very competitive few weeks, this show is worth a look.

Kimberley Shaw