OBSERVER: Back To Me
Domestic violence is a delicate subject to address, but Penelope Swales embodies the role of a woman surviving from day to day living in her car.
Written by Jules De Cinque and Swales, this is a show that is both touching and intimidating, given the prevalence of inappropriate aggression in our society.
Self-composed songs provide an insight into the challenges facing homeless women, but there is also opportunity for Swales to react to more commercial tunes. Each and all provide a window to delve into an aspect of the violence, isolation, fear and trauma many women have to face.
For all that, there is a fine thread of humour that still pervades the routine.
Director Margie Mackay has utilised simple visuals projected onto the back wall to add atmosphere, and the one car seat on stage is ample to suggest the confining isolation and discomfort of living in a car.
Whilst the songs evoke different moments and stages in the character’s journey seeking support and understanding, it is the nursery rhyme scene where we discover just how perfidious are the attitudes about women.
This is a telling show and the moments of discomfort create an awareness about an issue that is all too prevalent in today’s society. A counselor is also on hand lest the need arise for those in need of support.
Review by David McLean
Pictured: Penelope Swales.. Photo: John Spira