My Life In Boxes

My Life In Boxes
By Tarah Carey. Directed by Maude Davey. The Big Top, The Pleasure Garden, Fringe World, Northbridge, WA. February 14-21, 2016

My Life in Boxes, beautifully written by Tarah Carey, starts as an intimate drama. Immediately captivating, your mind is unlikely to wander from what you are watching, but if you have chosen this Fringe World show at random, you might wonder why this beautifully developing love story is being presented in the circus venue, The Big Top.

Expertly acted by Tarah Carey and Tim Rutty, this lovely two hander expands to fill the venue in an extreme, but gentle interpretation of physical theatre. These actor/gymnast/acrobats use movement, balance, trapeze and rope to tell the love story of Elise and Teddy, and of Elise's struggles and the decisions she must make when Teddy has gone.

Tarah Carey and Tim Rutty work together seemingly instinctively, create endearing and tangible characters and perform amazing physical feats in a way that appears organic and almost dream-like.

Very supportive composition and sound operation by Ian Moorhead, brings more to the story and almost overcomes the obligatory Fringe noise pollution from nearby venues. There is audience participation, but it is friendly, non threatening, warm and fun.

On the night I attended, this truly lovely production was sadly under-patronised, a shame for a show that has very wide appeal, is suitable for all ages and is a warm and feel-good experience.

Add this one to your schedule in the last week of Fringe World. A unique, uplifting and special show.

Kimberley Shaw

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