The Theory of Relativity

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https://www.whimsicalproductions.com.au/

Date Reviewed: 18/03/2021

Review written by Cassie Cheeseman

A hilarious and emotional production within a unique format

A rising star in the musical world, The Theory of Relativity is a fantastic musical by Neil Bartram almost unheard of in Australia. Providing exceptional entertainment with extreme emotional highs and lows, The Theory of Relativity is playing until Saturday 27 March at PACT Centre for Emerging Artists in Erskineville.

The Theory of Relativity predominantly utilises songs to tell the story of 12 seemingly separate personalities whose tales slowly intertwine throughout the duration of the production. When combined, each individual’s experiences convey the diverse array of emotions that are just part and parcel to being human, ranging from anger and fear to hope and love. It is almost impossible to select just a few highlights in the production as each story is terrific. However particularly memorable micro-tales include that of Catherine (played by the hilarious and expressive Grace Chim) who struggles to reconcile her germaphobia with a blooming personal relationship and Oliver, played by Matthew Yuen, who, having concealed a secret for years that has eaten at him, suddenly blurts it out to a complete stranger.

The entire cast is spectacular and each individual plays their characters intrinsic personality with flair and insight. The cast’s acting skills are especially visible in their solo performances where they cannot rely on other actors. This musical doesn’t follow the typical format of almost equal parts songs and spoken dialogue/acting. In fact, it is closer to 90% song with almost no spoken dialogue which must certainly be a vocal struggle for the actors, who have risen to the challenge. Particularly notable mentions go to Nicole De Villa, who performs a powerful and feisty number about the highs and lows of a relationship coming to an end and Lisa-Marie Long, who performs a beautiful piece about the never-ending love of a parent.

The set is simple, consisting almost solely of 12 chairs, a piece of chalk and some stuffed animals. This limited set design is an excellent choice given the fast-paced nature of the production. Music director Gianna Cheung has done a wonderful job with the music production and the live band is a perfect accompaniment. 

Whimsical Productions and co-directors Helen Kim and Michael Osborne have done a fabulous job of presenting a new musical to the Sydney arts scene. It is filled with hilarious highs and gut-wrenching lows which are sure to enthral any viewer.