Never Closer
Never Closer is a gripping, confronting and impressive play written by Grace Chapple. Initially developed for Belvoir’s 25A 2022 program, the play is back at Belvoir, now playing in the upstairs theatre. The show revives the same polished and experienced cast to the bigger stage to tackle massive world themes; from war to religion with a touch of Irish humour and pop culture references.
In Northern Ireland in 1977, we follow the celebrations and challenges of five teenage friends, Deidre’s (Emma Diaz), Jimmy's (Raj Labade), Mary (Ariadne Sgouros), Conor (Adam Sollis) and Niamh (Mabel Li). The friends all gather in Deidre’s living room for Christmas Eve, living the night to the fullest, as many of them will part ways shortly after. They try to focus on the positive experiences of that night and not on the war that is happening on their doorstep.
Image by Brett Boardman
10 years later, in 1987, an impromptu meeting of the friend group occurs in the same living room. Grace Deadon’s set transports the audience and cast clearly to the 80s alongside Keerthi Subramanyam’s stylish and nostalgic costuming. Deidre, Jimmy, Mary and Conor have stayed in the small town for different reasons–whether that be work, family or even love. Niamh has been adventuring in London and has lost contact with the group. But when she turns up with her British Fiancé, Harry (Philip Lynch) it causes conflict. Throughout this Christmas Eve night, we follow these friends on a journey of self-discovery, fun, anger, loss and (of course) love.
What was most impressive about this play was the distinct characters. I could not help but adore their nuanced friendships and dynamic as a group. Each performer’s commitment to their character, and one another, felt natural and refined. Stand-out performances go to Labade, who crafted the lovable Jimmy with a high emotional connection. Also, Diaz, with skilled execution, guides the audience as the main character of the play. Sgouros characterises Mary to perfection with her use of physical humour where Sollis aptly captures Conors anger, desperation and grief through strong physicalisation.
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Images by Brett Boardman
Due to the very heavy rain in Sydney at the time and Belvoir’s upstairs theatre acoustics, it was challenging to follow parts of the narrative. Unfortunately, there was a lack of strong vocality in parts, yet, the cast to a certain extent commanded focus through their physical movements and characterisation.
Never Closer has quite a slow build to the key conflict that transpired at the end of the play, a shocking and thought-provoking conclusion. While I enjoyed the build of tension, I felt the play could have benefited from some minor cuts to run at a shorter time frame. Nevertheless, the ending was charged and gut-wrenching, with moments you just have to see in person.
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Images by Brett Boardman
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Overall the six actors had strong character development and outstanding Irish accents, each completely believable. I commend the cast and crew for their commitment to their roles. This play will have audiences on the edge of their seats.
Never Closer is playing at Belvoir St until 16th June.
