Ash is in the unenviable position of having an ageing mother needing care, a typically solipsistic teenage daughter, a husband who cannot grasp Ash’s despair, and an overachieving and needy best friend. Ash has always juggled these competing needs and often neglected her own wellbeing.

When her mother’s operation is brought forward the strains in Ash’s life reach an overwhelming level.

The play’s structure parallels Ash life. She is on stage for the whole performance, just as Ash is always in demand from those closest to her.

Karen Pattinson gives a very good performance as the overwrought and vulnerable Ash. She is aware that the pressure is about to make her explode and attemptsto put strategies in place to help her cope.

Directed by David Allsopp and written by David Allsopp & Karen Pattinson, ALL YOU CAN CARRY explores a worthy theme and a problem encountered by many women of Ash’s generation. They succeed admirably in conveying this issue to the audience. 

The metaphor of Ash’s favourite bag is a clever touch and there are touches of humour about teenagers and husbands. David Allsopp catches the banter between long term partners with authenticity and understanding. Some stronger dramatic touch points and some more distinctive plotting could enhance the powerful themes of this work.

The supporting role of husband, Cam, is played by Dan Ferris, and Vanessa Merewether plays the friend, Laura, and the daughter Saskia. David Allsopp also covers sound and lighting.

ALL YOU CAN CARRY is on until 3rd September at the Emerging Artist Sharehouse in the Erskineville Town Hall, as part of the 2022 Sydney Fringe Festival.