Permission to Speak

Chamber Made’s Permission to Speak played Brisbane Powerhouse Theatre as part of the Australian Performing Arts Market (APAM) schedule for 2018. If you’ve not heard of it, APAM showcases contemporary performing arts to the international sector. This work is certainly one you can imagine touring the world. It would be just as at home in a modern art gallery as it is in a theatre or any other number of performance spaces. It’s unsurprising then, to know Chamber Made has presented over 90 performance seasons in Australia and internationally since 1988. Clearly they know how to make adaptable, accessible, yet creative and artistic work. 

There was a hypnotic beauty to the inventive a capella work. The compositions by Kate Neal were layered with multiple voices, repetition and harmonies, as if Laurie Anderson and Enya had a music baby. The cast had excellent timing and were able to seamlessly synchronise with pre-recorded reminiscences. The relaxing tones in the music and voices were a great counterpoint to some of the subject matter.

The recordings of interviews and the show itself had a theme of reflections on childhood and family and in particular, parental relationships. There was a special focus on the things not said and on post mortem recollections of difficult times with a parent. All kinds of families and conflicts were explored. While the scripting might challenge people who prefer an easy, linear narrative, the topics covered were relatable for everyone.

The cast of four singers presented a focussed, tightly rehearsed show. Each had lovely singing voices on their own, which when combined only enhanced the mood and beauty of the work. Choreography added to the hypnotic quality of the show, as did the black, white and silver, stark, modern set design. Musical cutlery and glass-wear created some interest in the soundscape which was heightened by positioning of speakers behind the four banks of the audience.

Permission to Speak was a professionally polished performance that provoked thought and discussion. It was a singular musical-theatre style that’s well worth experiencing for yourself.

Kiesten McCauley 

Photographer: Pier Carthew