Family secrets, past love, memory loss and addiction are just some of the issues explored in Sunset Strip, an Australian play by Suzie Miller, now on at the New Theatre. On the upside, this drama/comedy provides hope, inspiration and renewal.
The setting is in the home of Ray (Vincent Melton), located in a rural community which once thrived. There was a popular lake; now it is dried away, people have moved. Just like the lake, Ray’s wife has passed away and his family has wilted too. Ray used to love the place. Now, with dementia set in, his daily routine is full of contradictions. His mind is sharp in a game of chess but he occasionally reverts to fits of rage, possibly born out of frustration and memory loss. His first daughter Caroline (Erica Nelson) left for the city years ago and is now a successful lawyer. Phoebe (Molly Haddon), his second daughter chose to remain and care for him. Over the years this selfless act of martyrdom has slowly soiled her mind with regret, anger and jealousy. As her children are cared for by foster parents, she finds solace in drink and drugs.
Two things have kept Pheobe upbeat. She is getting married to local boy Teddy (Shane Davidson) and her sister is finally coming to visit after many years away. There are many ‘small-town’ issues in Sunset Strip. Everybody knows each other, drinking is the elixir of troubles and when people return, they generally bring new unwanted problems with them. And for one weekend, Ray’s house is about to be upturned. Caroline’s visit is the launchpad for numerous family upsets. Her marriage is over and cancer is ambushing her body. Phoebe has pent-up childhood matters. And to top it off, Teddy still has feelings for his girlfriend of years ago, Caroline.
This is the stuff good soap-operas are made of! Writer Suzie Miller has made Sunset Strip enthralling from start to finish. With only four characters, each one is properly analysed so we can understand their motives and values. The script is dramatic but peppered with comic relief. Cleverly handled as the play’s content is, it will be raw for some audience members.
Director Annette van Roden delivers a memorable production of Sunset Strip. With her added task of set designer, Roden creates three locations on stage which easily blend into each other. The lake is bright and exudes happiness from past times; the lounge room is a mixture of homeliness and dullness; whilst the shed’s rusty tin appearance suits the dark things that happen there.
The cast delivered wonderful performances. They all played relatable characters. Their acting gave an empathetic link to the audience which the themes deserved.
Overall, Sunset Strip was very entertaining. It dealt with confronting adult issues of aged care, dementia, grief and betrayal sensitively. It succeeded in extending the reach of these issues to discussion beyond the theatre. A powerful Australian play all should see!
Sunset Strip by Suzie Miller is at New Theatre, 542 King Street, Newtown (Sydney) until 3 August 2024 Bookings: newtheatre.org.au
Paul Kiely
For more of Paul Kiely’s writings on theatre, check out Absolute Theatre
Other reviews you might enjoy:
- Prima Facie (Griffin) – theatre review
- All My Sons (New Theatre) – theatre review
- Prima Facie (Qld Theatre) – theatre review
Paul Kiely reviews shows in Sydney for www.absolutetheatre.com.au. He joined the team in 2018.