Social distancing has now become a fixture of our ‘new normal’, an adaptation within theatre and wider society responding to the Covid pandemic. In a time where we’re all being made to keep our distance, human contact and interaction has become compromised – an aspect of humanity we would have taken for granted up until now. Reimagining C-o-n-t-a-c-t, a French production written by Eric Chantelauze and adapted into English by Quentin Bruno, Gabrielle Jourdain presents an experience considering the importance of connection and the importance of connecting and resolving emotional pain within oneself.
A site specific work situated by the Thames, Cyril Barbessol‘s atmospheric sound design instantly establishes itself as a welcomed, crucial component of the production. Laura White‘s Sarah endears, her initial random thoughts on a tangent as prior thoughts, beliefs and ideas lead onto the next, like dominos, very relatable.
The show’s site specific format has us follow the cast, its as if we’re all walking past Sarah, a stranger, who unknowingly to passers by, is going through her own internal struggles. Joined by Max Gold‘s enigmatic yet charismatic Raphael, the pair, initially strangers embark on an emotional journey that has you wanting to know how the show will resolve.
Societally, we’re taught to hold back how we genuinely feel, often times pushing back traumatic events that have shaped who we are today. C-o-n-t-a-c-t explores the impact of loss and grief, and how these both without us realising can have an impact on our mental health. The show’s essence is full of heart, Sarah and Raphael’s meeting important for Sarah’s journey moving forward.
Jourdain’s re-imagining of the production, teamed up with Bronagh Lagan‘s direction and Jean-Phillipe Marie de Chastenay‘s technical direction deliver an exciting filmic environment, as if we’re all watching the recording of a TV show or film – the on location feel adding a sense of excitement and drama. The voices of Sarah and Raphael brilliantly provided by Aoife Kennan and Richard Heap, a memorable watch.
Review written by Lucy Basaba.
C-o-n-t-a-c-t is currently showing at various locations – Central London (Monument), South London (Clapham Common) and Greenwich (Cutty Sark). The two actors taking part in this production were Laura White and Max Gold however this may change depending on the performance. Shows take place until Saturday 10th October 2020 and show at various times. To find out more, visit here…
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