Venue: Ensemble Theatre (Kirribilli NSW), May 2 – Jun 7, 2025
Playwright: Harold Pinter
Director: Mark Kilmurry
Cast: Nicole da Silva, Gareth Davies, Anthony Taufa
Images by Prudence Upton
Theatre review
The Lover and The Dumb Waiter are one-act plays by Harold Pinter, currently being presented as a double bill. Both bear the dramatist’s characteristic absurdism, not only in their theatrical style but also in terms of what they say about the human experience. The former delves into the concept of monogamy, and the latter explores the idea of a person’s occupation. Pinter’s knack for making the ordinary appear strange, as can be seen in this pair of works, is perhaps one of his greatest contributions to art.
Direction by Mark Kilmurry locates for Pinter’s bizarre inclinations, a space of realism that allows us to see ourselves in characters who behave in unpredictable ways. The production tends to be excessively subdued in tone, which unfortunately diminishes its entertainment value. It is however a handsome staging, with Simone Romaniuk demonstrating commendable ingenuity and taste, in set and costume designs that are as transportive as they are appealing.
Actor Gareth Davies takes on key roles in both stories with a glint in his eye, charming us with the quiet mischievousness he brings to his interpretations. Nicole da Silva and Anthony Taufa are strong presences who keep us engaged, but can be somewhat understated in approach where bolder choices would be more effective.
Questioning the very state of normalcy, is one of the biggest responsibilities of any artist. Even in abnormal times, when kleptocracy is taking hold in full view of populaces in previously democratic parts of the world, we need to be reminded of the differences between what is human, and what is manmade.
Suzy Goes See 