OBSERVER: Afterglow review by Graeme McCoubrie
A Midsumma Festival offering of Midnight Theatricals production of Afterglow has had its premiere Australian season at Chapel off Chapel.
This follows its many highly praised seasons in New York, Los Angeles and London since being written and directed by S. Asher Gelman in 2017,
It brings a refreshing look at the relationship of two men, a married couple who have invited another to share their bed, a threesome something they have done often.
There are not many plays, especially queer ones, that on stage explore deep and intimately those having multiple sexual partners simultaneously.
Josh played by Matthew Mitcham (the first openly gay Olympic champion) is married to Alex played by Julian Curtis and have been sharing a loving and open relationship so much so they are planning to have a baby.
But things change when Darius played by Matthew Predny arrives and becomes a sexual partner to Josh, things get complicated.
To provide the intimacy the play required, well credentialled NYC based Set Designer Ann Beyersdorfer created a masterful and dynamic set that was easily transformed into various scene locations.
The opening sequence was a centrally raised ‘bed’, initially with a surround scrim that silhouetted two embracing bodies, and when removed we were introduced to three naked bodies entangled in a well-choreographed lascivious and physical encounter.
Encased with mirror walls the set was often converted by the cast, again to choreographed movement to other apartments, a dining room, a party room and a surprising shower placed stage central that the naked bodies often shared.
While there were many nude scenes and erotic sexual cavorting, all discreetly performed under the guidance of Chloe Dallimore, Intimacy and Movement Director, the work essentially is about Josh lying to husband Alex, fracturing the marriage while falling in love with Darius, who in the end declares “I don’t love you” leading Josh to a breakdown in the final scene.
Matthew Mitcham played a pivotal role and showed his considerable talent, as an actor and even when nude. Mood swings by Matthew Predny were well captured, while Julian Curtis played the loyal and faithful husband throughout.
A play for all, no matter your sexual preference.
Until February 21 at Chapel off Chapel.
Bookings: chapeloffchapel.com.au/show/afterglow/
Review by Graeme McCoubrie
Pictured: Matthew Mitcham and Matthew Predney in Afterglow.
Photo: Cameron Grant Parenthesy