Review: Big Yikes // Playlab Theatre

 

Written by Jake Goodall

Growing up can often feel like navigating through uncharted territory, with uncertainties looming at every turn. Big Yikes! encapsulates this sentiment within a concise 90-minute production, weaving the relatable journey of Loxie as she ventures into the complexities of adulthood. From grappling with identity to confronting the daunting questions of purpose and direction. 

Reinventing herself to evade being reduced to mere stereotypes, Loxie embarks on a tumultuous period of transition—graduating from school, stepping into her first job, and embarking on the quest for independence while awaiting university acceptances. Set against the backdrop of a dilapidated share house and the tumult of tangled relationships, Big Yikes! delves into the nuances of boundary-setting, decision-making, and self-discovery, all while injecting doses of humor and heartbreak into its storytelling.

Written by Madeleine Border, the script's casual tone serves as an accessible conduit for its youthful audience, effortlessly guiding them through the ebbs and flows of Loxie's life. Border's masterful narrative choices, including the integration of a crime podcast to narrate Loxie's journey, seamlessly blend comedic moments with heartfelt reflections, showcasing the depth of her writing abilities. Notably, the intentional absence of pronouns adds a beautiful layer to the exploration of identity—a commendable choice reflective of the production's thematic depth.

Under Ian Lawson's direction, the production adopts a minimalist approach, allowing the narrative to take center stage. The ingenious utilization of a versatile coffee shop set piece accentuated the authenticity of the Gen Z experience. The use of projection on the proscenium helped to highlight the theme of the scene however there was not enough time to read the words before the scene started, some further development could have been made around the projection. Geoff Squires' intricate lighting design, particularly during bus scenes, adds layers of realism to the storytelling. Brady Watkins' evocative soundscapes further heighten the emotional resonance, underscoring the pivotal role of music and sound in theatrical storytelling.

The cast of this production were stunning featuring Juliette Milne as Loxie, Billy Fogarty as Charlie (and Others), Tenielle Plunket as Steph (and Others) and Christopher Paton as Darcy (and Others) it is impossible to talk about these performers individually as they are all so extremely talented and showcased multiple different characters throughout the production. However the most stand out was their use of ensemble work, the way each actor bounced off each other whether that be for a laugh or a tear, it is clear this group of performers have connected perfectly to create a stunning production. One small criticism would be that at the start of the performance the projection was a little low, especially in the large room we were in, however this quickly dissipated as they performers continued to warm up.

In essence, "Big Yikes" emerges as a poignant coming-of-age tale that navigates the tumultuous waters of self-discovery with wit, heart, and authenticity. Through its resonant storytelling and stellar performances, the production not only entertains but also offers a mirror for audiences to reflect on their own journey of growth and self-actualization.

Playing until the 23rd of March 2024 at the Underground Theatre, Brisbane Playhouse this is a MUST SEE production. Book your tickets now!

Photos by Stephen Henry & Morgan Roberts