Foreign Bodies (Sly Rat) – theatre review

Well written and largely skilfully executed, this is a sexually charged drama set in the midst of the Mumbai terrorist attacks of November 2008 that left 164 people dead and more than 300 wounded.

Marika Marosszeky plays Arizona Snow, an American porn actress being interviewed in her hotel room by an Australian journalist, Martin Morecombe (a role filled by Alan Chambers). Usually based in LA, Snow has been in the biz for a decade, during which time her no-holes-barred “output” has been prolific. She’s also written a best selling novel about her exploits. Now she is in India starring in a Bollywood production, but the rules of the game are different here. Morecombe, the cynical young journalist, is asking all the usual questions and not getting very far. Snow sent a 15-page backgrounder to the publication for which he is working, but Morecombe didn’t read it. She wants a serious piece written, but he has a different take on proceedings.

Playwright Andy Harmsen and director Chris Baldock have done an excellent job in shifting the mood of the production as the plot develops. This is a power game, with first one and then the other character seemingly holding the upper hand. But there is a lot more here than first meets the eye. It is not just about titillation and primal urges, but about manipulation, consequences, vulnerabilities and fears, which are exposed as the veil is lowered. So much so that before this is over we will know a lot more about both Snow and Chambers and the environment in which they find themselves, much of it not all that pretty.

The performances are strong, if at times somewhat overplayed.

The set design is a real feature as The Owl and Cat Theatre has been transformed into a little slice of India. The centrepiece is an impressive wall decoration containing a representation of the Hindu God Vishnu. Metre upon metre of block printed rich red cloth is draped around the walls and patrons can choose to sit on either specially purchased colourful Indian cushions (a delightful touch) or regular chairs. There is even a whiff of incense in the air.

Far less attractive is the use of herbal cigarettes in a small, hot, closed space, with the putrid smell that the cigarettes give off having no way of escaping. After a dramatic tail end to the production, I had some difficulty with the climax, if you pardon the pun, which I felt should have been more clearly drawn. Due to the nature of the subject matter, be aware that some of the language is quite raw (appropriate mind you, but still blue).

In summary though, the Australian premiere of Foreign Bodies (a fine title choice) by Sly Rat Theatre Company is a compelling piece of theatre. Even the 12-page paper program is far more instructive and insightful than most others I have seen generated by independent theatre. Those behind the production have clearly been diligent and attentive.

It is on at The Owl and Cat Theatre, 34 Swan Street, Richmond until 31st October.

For tickets, go to trybooking.com

Alex First