Stage: Across the universe

Supernova

by Rhiannon Neads
dir Jessica Dromgoole
with Rhiannon Neads, Sam Swann
Omnibus Theatre, Clapham • 25.Apr-13.May.23

Exploring very deep themes with an unusually light touch, this two-person drama is strikingly well-written by Rhiannon Neads, and beautifully played by Neads with costar Sam Swann. It's a warm, funny and ultimately emotional romantic tale, and it's staged with an inventive charm that evokes a sense of the vast universe that surrounds the characters. Because one of the characters is dealing with depression in a complex way, it has a resonant impact.

During a fancy dress party, Harry (Swann) notices Tess (Neads) in her astronaut costume and starts a conversation. Their connection is quick, bonding over their mutual curiosity, and before they know it they're romantically involved. Their life together is deliriously happy, as they grow closer and create a life together. But Tess is dealing with clinical depression, and she is unable to express herself to Harry, who desperately wants to help her.

Sharp dialog keeps the story moving at a brisk pace, cleverly observing details in both the characters and the life they create as a couple. Scenes shift seamlessly into each other, revisiting motifs that range from galactic adventures to costume parties. Both Neads and Swann create strikingly vivid characters who are easy to identify with. Even when Tess' illness begins to cause problems between them, it's clear that her inner desires are at war with her actions. So Harry's helplessness becomes hugely sympathetic.

These are unusually complicated characters and situations, so it's particularly impressive that the script is able to maintain such a brightly humorous tone even as it delves under the surface. It helps that the staging is so bracingly simple, a white circle on the floor with outer-space flourishes and props placed in orbit around the action. Within this, the actors are able to use their physicality to express a range of scenarios that highlight the central issue without overstating anything. And since the script never preaches, this is a play that makes us see depression through a fresh perspective that's honest and also hopeful.

For details, visit CLAPHAM OMNIBUS >

photos by Jack Sain • 27.Apr.23