Drawing inspiration from the wise words, "Don’t set yourself on fire to keep others warm," this short play offers a fictional yet deeply authentic exploration of emotions, connections, and the introspection that accompanies young love. Nestled in the heart of Fortitude Valley, Backdock Arts offers a unique theatre experience. With its forty chairs repurposed from old bus seats, the venue exudes a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Upon entering the theatre through the set resembling a quaint antique store, you'll hear the soothing tunes of acoustic music gently serenading you. This carefully curated soundscape evokes a nostalgic vibe, as if one is strolling through your fondest memories.
Set Me on Fire tells the tale of Eden and Noah, former partners who unexpectedly meet again after a five-year separation. What starts as awkward small talk swiftly transforms into a whirlwind trip down memory lane. Rachel McMurray and Mannon Davies do an amazing job bringing their characters to life, even amidst the distractions of the busy main road outside. Eden's retro attire, adorned with delicate details, complements the character and the narrative's nostalgic tone. The set, adorned with items sourced from local op-shops (and the team's grandparents' homes), includes a charming retro telly that helps steer the audience through the timeline; also enhanced by lighting shifts. Rachel and Mannon’s use of the set is dynamic, manoeuvring items themselves to transition between various times and locations.
As the story unfolds, the audience is taken on a journey through the early days of Eden and Noah’s relationship. From the very beginning, their chemistry is electric that you can practically see the sparks flying! They banter, they flirt, they carefully avoid any hint of drama - typical of a new romance. The beautiful poetic script, complemented by romantic lighting and music, encapsulates the intoxicating bliss of their bond: "When you care about someone, it feels like your heart is on fire." The exploration of first love in this play is achingly relatable. Meeting at seventeen, Eden and Noah navigate the exhilarating highs and heart-wrenching lows of being each other's first romantic experiences, including the sweet intimacy and the inevitable conflicts. Their bond is tested as they confront their differing values and external pressures.
The unseen figure of Noah's mother exerts a powerful influence, leading to honest, often painful discussions between the couple. Eden's challenge to assert herself and Noah's failure to defend her against his mother's disapproval serve as a poignant examination of the emotional labor often borne by one partner in a relationship. Despite her repeated attempts to communicate her feelings, Eden is often met with Noah’s confusion and helplessness. The raw vulnerability in her words, "You say you love me. So why can't I see that?" says it all about Eden's unfulfilled emotional needs and frustration. Noah’s manipulative plea, "If you loved me, you wouldn’t leave me," exposes the toxic dynamics that can arise in such charged moments.
The decline of their relationship, as they continue with their usual routines but are plagued by uncomfortable silences and unspoken realities until one person finds the courage to walk away, resonates with anyone who has faced the painful end of a meaningful relationship. These themes are often a universal experience, and the actors’ genuine portrayal suggests that they, along with the playwright, have likely drawn from their own lives.
Moving ahead to the current time, we discover what has become of these characters. Their polite conversation, filled with surface-level inquiries about each other’s happiness, reveals the emotional distance that has grown between them. The lingering question of “What if?” hangs heavily in the air, prompting the audience to reflect on the complexities of love, timing, and personal growth.
This debut work from Silent Sky Collective, led by the talented duo of Cale Dennis and Samara Louise, provides a nurturing platform for emerging voices in the theatre scene. Cale Dennis’s direction ensures every moment is crafted with a clear intention. The technical expertise of Tim James in design and Cullyn Beckton in stage management results in a unified and engaging performance. The playwright, Samara Louise, is a noted author of poetry, and her lyrical touch is evident throughout the script. Rachel McMurray and Mannon Davies, both pursuing their Fine Arts degrees in Acting, deliver performances that are as genuine as they are moving. Rachel, in particular, embodies Eden’s poetic spirit and emotional turmoil with remarkable depth, almost bringing this reviewer to tears as she navigates her character’s journey for validation and understanding. Mannon’s portrayal of Noah makes it difficult to dislike him despite his flaws, showcasing the complexity of his character.
"Set Me on Fire" offers a poetic and heartfelt perspective on young love, personal growth, and the painful yet liberating process of moving on. Now playing at BackDock Arts in Fortitude Valley until August 2nd, 2024.
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