Milo’s Wake

Conceived from the intriguing premise of a man hosting his own wake, Richmond Players’ production of Milo’s Wake unravels into a vivid exploration of the Irish migrant experience with deep roots in personal narratives.

Milo (Sean Duff), who has spent many years in Australia, has chosen to celebrate his life in a rather unconventional manner. Although, initially, I perceived this as an impressive platform for the actor playing Milo, and it is, each character plays a significant role exploring themes of legacy, family dynamics, and personal growth.

Milo is a self-made man, known for his pride and determination. He started from humble beginnings and achieved great success by building a prosperous cladding business. Proud of his accomplishments, both in his professional life and his personal life, he also managed to nurture a successful marriage and family. Duff portrays him as a charismatic figure whose presence looms large over his family, even at his wake, stifling relationships. His decision to announce his retirement and hand over his business during his wake underscores his flair for dramatic gestures and control over his legacy but in the end as the layers strip away he is unmasked. 

Maura (Katrina Ann Pritchard) is Milo's wife, Representing a bygone era, Maura's demeanor contrasts with the evolving world around her. While she may seem reserved, her character is the steady and reliable backbone of her family, standing by Milo's side through thick and thin. Pritchard's portrayal ensures that Maura is seen as a figure of strength and unwavering support, which is essential to the family’s cohesion. It is a lovely performance, as we learn about the grief she has endured and her strength to stand up to Milo. 

Ned (Jony Teperski) is Milo and Maura's son, and represents the new generation, full of potential, yet still living in the shadow of his father's grand achievements. Teperski's performance captures Ned’s mixture of insecurity and ambition, making his journey towards accepting responsibility both relatable and compelling. Ned's story is central to the exploration of familial expectations and the passage of legacy.

Brooke (Brittany Tanti) is Ned’s new girlfriend, who proves herself to be resilient and more than capable of holding her own. Tanti's warm performance adds a fresh dynamic to the story, as Brooke navigates the complexities of joining a family with established traditions. Her character challenges Milo’s assumptions and ultimately earns his respect, indicating a shift towards acceptance of new ideas and relationships within the family dynamic.

Under the direction of Carol Wimmer, the production masterfully balances intense drama with moments of revelation. Artfully depicting the tyrannical elements within families, primarily through the father's role, the play also addresses themes of grief and the quest for identity and validation. This is certainly a rollercoaster of emotions. 

By inviting the audience to become his friends and family, the production does away with traditional stage barriers, allowing for an immersive, interactive experience. Milo’s Wake shatters conventional realism by breaking the fourth wall, inviting the audience to transform into the ensemble. This interactive dynamic shifts the energy of the play with participation from the audience. The actors distinguish between direct audience address and internal performance, guaranteeing performances will differ by audience interaction and energy.

Although set in Australia, Irish Music plays a central role, capturing the essence of an Irish wake with traditional and contemporary Irish tunes. The inclusion of live music by the Wren’s Band (Neil McKenzie, Christine Mitchell and Carole Pfeiffer) is not merely for entertainment; it drives the story, enhances the emotional atmosphere, and serves as a crucial thematic backbone. Wimmer has effectively utilised music to transition between the play’s light-hearted and more sombre moments, preserving the cultural significance. Audience members find themselves emotionally invested as the line between spectator and participant blurs with some singing and clapping along with the music and chuckling each time Milo called for a kind word. 

The beautiful pub, manned by bartender Michael Eadie, sits like a jewel upon the stage and certainly no expense has been speared on the set. Steve Wimmer has created an authentic Irish pub complete with bar and a fridge full of drinks that spills out into the hall where tables are white and green blending with the set and recognisable Irish colour palette. 

And, of course, as its’ a wake there is food. Matinee performances are treated to tea/coffee and a spread of cakes to share, while in the evening a delicious baked dinner is on the menu with all the trimmings. 

Then it’s back to the Milo’s wake.  A celebration of life, music, and cultural identity that encourages the audience to reflect on their stories and those who came before them. 

Whether you have Irish roots or not, Wimmer has crafted the intricate detail that draws attendees warmly into the story's fabric. This play is a poignant reminder of the universality of family and belonging that is both profound and uniquely entertaining.

Well worth catching The Richmond Players last show of the year in the coming 2 weekends.

Nicole Smith

Photographer: Penelope Johnson.