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Michael Cox reviews a production with a terrific performance but one that lacks theatrical bite.
A Girl is a Half-formed Thing is well intentioned. It tells the harsh story of a young woman who had a hard upbringing that includes sexual abuse. It is a tale that is difficult to listen to.
In its favour is actress Aoife Duffin, who is utterly brilliant in her performance. The script, adapted for the stage by director Annie Ryan from Eimear McBride’s novel, focuses on the hero but calls on her to also play the full cast of characters in the woman’s life, and Duffin is convincing and committed to every role she plays. It is a commendable performance that is nearly flawless in its execution.
However, while the performance is terrific, the production is not. As the play is based on a popular book, there is surely a sizable audience wanting to see this. This might be why it is residing in the larger Traverse One space, even though it is a quiet solo show that would greatly benefit from being in a more intimate setting. By putting the production into the larger space, the performance feels too removed, making everything next to impossible to emotionally connect with and sucking nearly any drama out.
Calling this A Production is a Half-formed Thing might feel too harsh due to the excellent quality of Duffin’s performance, but without an emotional connection to the material, the production lacks theatrical bite. A great shame, especially as Duffin just might give the finest performance currently to be seen in the Traverse—if not the Fringe.
A Girl is a Half-formed Thing performs at the Traverse until August 30, 2015. Check the theatre’s site for specific dates and times.
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