The Shape of Things follows the tumultuous relationship between the outgoing and opinionated art student, Evelyn (Georgia Brindley,
Joseph K) with the awkward and shy museum security guard, Adam (Samson Alston,
RFDS - Royal Flying Doctor Service).
Thrown into their chaos is Adam's mate and loud-mouthed jock, Phillip (Tayman Jamae,
Look Both Ways) who is engaged to the sweet and simple, Jenny (Olivia Hall Smith, Top 5 Finalist Australian Poetry Slam).
Jenny (Olivia Hall Smith), Phillip (Tayman Jamae), Evelyn (Georgia Brindley) and Adam (Samson Alston) in a scene from The Shape of Things. Image supplied by David Hooley.
From Adam and Evelyn's innocent first date, their relationship transforms into a wild and life-altering encounter for Adam as he is unwittingly manipulated into changing his appearance and behaviour. These changes are soon noticed by his best mate's fiancé, Jenny, igniting the unresolved sexual chemistry between Adam and Jenny from their first year of university.
Eventually, this explodes in a fiery chaos, upending everything Adam loves. However, with chaos comes the truth.
Adam (Samson Alston) and Evelyn (Georgia Brindley) in a scene from The Shape of Things. Image supplied by David Hooley.
Consisting of ten scenes,
The Shape of Things is easily digestible, thoroughly entertaining and included flawless, convincing performances from each actor. It's funny and witty, and from the start, we're drawn to Evelyn's enigmatic ways, much like Adam. However, as Evelyn's truths surface, we're torn between Adam's old friends and the new life he's created with Evelyn.
Whilst the trope is familiar from stage and screen (
Pygmalion,
She's All That), what makes
The Shape of Things stand out is its role reversal and its sharp and witty script, along with its ability to stimulate conversations about 'what is art?' and 'how far would you go for love?'' Long after the show has ended.
Accompanying me (on her first live-theatre experience) to review this play was my girlfriend, Hailey. She too enthusiastically gave it "two thumbs up" and could not stop talking about how fantastic it was throughout dinner after the show.
Evelyn (Georgia Brindley) and Jenny (Olivia Hall Smith) in a scene from The Shape of Things. Image supplied by David Hooley.
is written by Neil Labute and directed by Les Solomon. The play runs for 2.5 hours (including a 15-minute intermission) with drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and snacks (chips, chocolate) available to purchase from the bar.
Tickets can be purchased online
here.
Adults - $45
Concession - $35
Group of six - $180
Group of ten - $250
Evelyn (Georgia Brindley) in a scene from The Shape of Things. Image supplied by David Hooley.
Flight Path Theatre is at 142 Addison Road Marrickville. There is free parking onsite. EFTPOS is available and there are plenty of pre or post-show dining options along Enmore Road, Enmore and King St Newtown. Within walking distance is the
Vic on the Park Pub. For more information about the venue, including upcoming shows, please visit
www.flightpaththeatre.org and don't forget to bring your mask.
The Shape of Things is currently playing at the Flight Path Theatre in Marrickville. Image supplied.
