Revu Imitations

“Imitations” Poster

Pinch Me Production’s sold-out, snappy debut is a funny and thoughtful exploration of contemporary issues for 20-somethings. With a run time of approximately 40 minutes, there are certainly some moving moments. There is also the sense that the characters and story could be developed a little further. 

An intimate two-hander written and performed by Anna Ticehurst (Bea), the play is a naturalistic dramedy that takes us into the knotty relationship of Bea and her childhood friend, Frank (played by Gregor Roach). Produced by Zara Clarke, the play is set in Bea’s depression pit of a bedroom. Surrounded by clothes and rubbish, the audience feel they have stepped into her troubled mind. This is amplified by an effective use of space throughout the performance - neighbours even knock on the wall to complain of noise. Meanwhile, costumes are simplistic and casual, allowing the actors to shine.

“Imitations”

Directed by Lilly Butcher, the performance is tight, but could feel more spontaneous. The pair’s opening banter leans a bit too far into the awkwardness of running into an old friend, reducing their synchrony. This makes it harder to believe they share common memories and in-jokes. Nonetheless, Ticehurst and Roach give strong individual performances. In particular, they work well together towards the end to produce some poignant resolutions. Bea’s erratic outbursts are balanced nicely by Frank’s calm, reassuring presence. Both effectively portray an imperfect self-awareness, along with the sense that there is more to their relationship than meets the eye. 

“Imitations”

The script is articulate and current, with enough humour to lift the pair’s back and forth from monotony, though a couple of the punchlines could be stronger. By centering the dynamic between a lesbian and a straight man, Ticehurst opens up a distinctive lens through which several challenging topics are explored. Bea’s experience of homophobia highlights the importance (and struggles) of chosen family - particularly when no longer a child. While Bea babbles and overshares, Frank’s reservation embodies elements of the male loneliness epidemic. The use of motifs (a broken phone and an unread letter) further stipulate the theme of poor communication. There is also a nice tension between nostalgia and disillusionment, which builds on, and adds specificity to, the central theme of loss. 

Overall, the play is an introspective piece with room to grow. With such a short run time, it is difficult to make conclusions far beyond stereotypes, which weakens the character’s unique relationship. This does not take away from the many achievements of the production, of which the performance and script display great potential. 

3.5/5 Stars

“Imitations”

Review by Ella Kennedy