[usr 5]

This stunning play has a major twist that should be
revealed in the theatre and not in a review. This
makes it difficult to discuss a major theme of the work
and much of the content in the second half. What can be
imparted is that  is a brilliant piece of theatre
that contains passion and comedy and is highly recommended.

To give an indication of the quality of this work, written
by Dennis Kelly, an award-winning British playwright,
the original 2018 London production was performed by Carey
Mulligan and the 2022 Adelaide Festival season was sold out. It
is a one woman show featuring an unnamed main character who
talks about her early and mostly bad relationships before
meeting a marvellous man in an airline queue.

The intense relationship, their successful careers, the numerous anecdotes and the struggles and joys of parenthood are all delightfully written and seem to indicate that this will be an entertaining but not extraordinary night of theatre.

However, when the twist is revealed it is a take your breath away moment and the exploration of the situation is harrowing and tumultuous.

Another clever aspect of this play is that incidental anecdotes
in the first half of the play have echoes in the second half
which give the anecdotes poignancy and profound relevance.

GIRLS & BOYS stars Justine Clarke and she captures brilliantly
the comedy and drama of this play. Her performance had the
audience enthralled.

Direction by Mitchell Butel is first rate. The creative team for
this excellent production includes Set and Costume Designer 
Ailsa Paterson, Lighting Designer Nigel Levings, Composer Alan
John, Sound Designer Andrew Howard, 

GIRLS AND BOYS is playing  as part of the Sydney Festival and runs at the Seymour Centre until 15th January 2023.