In a generation where every living moment is documented on social media sites, it can be very easy to take the value of photographs and memories for granted. In a fast paced and immediate technological world that we know live in, Lowri Evans‘ The Secret Life of You and Me offers a much more authentic alternative…
A celebration of Lowri’s 30th Birthday, The Secret Life of You and Me is a look back at what was, as well as a look forward to what potentially could be. Dressed in a Sparkly white dress, Lowri Evans’ bubbly and down to earth persona navigated the audience through a selection of memories and stories; in a sense it were as if this were Lowri’s birthday party, and the audience members were playing the role of party guests.
On a white sheet upstage, projections displayed images of diary entries, aeroplane floor plans and photos of Lowri trying on an array of outfits for a holiday. A depiction of her long distance relationship spanning from the UK to Brazil, which added an authentic and home made element to the production. Drawing on the overly photoshopped and exaggerated world of celebrity pop culture, Gwyneth Paltrow’s healthy eating, world saving cook book was referenced; as Lowri drew around an image of pots and pans. A comical look at the culture of women’s magazines and the media that appear to depict unrealistic and unhealthy visions of the ideal woman.
From looking back at moments that had passed, The Secret Life of You and Me also focused on moments yet to be created. Having worked with people with Dementia, Lowri’s sentiment that, ‘she thought in the future, as she worked with those near the end of their lives’ served as a poignant reminder of the power of memory. Surrounded by numerous illuminated glitter filled jars, the set became an extension of her mind as she dreamt of illuminated plankton becoming visible in a dark expanse, this was magical and visually stunning. Other moments included Lowri writing a message on a smudged window, as well as showcasing a slide show of written messages written on condensed windows, a comical conversation with her father looking back at the time she reversed called him, and Lowri carefully attempting to navigate a wire around the word ‘LOVE’. The Secret Life of You and Me was tangential and playful in structure, serving as a museum of Lowri’s life so far, however the piece through out was slow in momentum. 3/5
The Secret Life of You and Me is currently showing at The ovalhouse Theatre until Saturday 15th February, for more information on the production, click here…
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