One (Redtoblue Performance) 2011 SummerWorks Review

I watched One at Factory Theatre today and I’m not quite sure what I can say about the piece that could possibly do it justice. I wish I had more time to process this show as I feel it’s one of those plays that stays with you and reveals its abstract mysteries about love as you ponder over it.

At its heart, it is a tragic Grecian love story based on the story of Orpheus and Eurydice, chasing after “the one” all the way into the underworld.  The story comes alive with fabulous acting, gripping sound effects, magical sets and perfect lighting.  All of the technical aspects were so perfectly executed that I truly felt transported into this dark and beautiful world for an hour.

Part of SummerWorks National Series, One is created by Jason Carnew who first developed this show in 2004. You can tell right away that this is a well thought-out production in which all the elements flow together.

All of the actors are amazing, but Amber Borotsik who plays Phillistine – the tormented girl on a quest to find her lover – is phenomenal. She tells the story with every movement and conveys powerful emotions with every ballet stance; her energy is remarkable.

I don’t want to give too much away about the set as it seems alive and is a captivating part of the story. Let’s just say it transforms from a tiny office, to a bloody river you would expect to find in the depths of hell, to a beautifully starry night.

This was my first show of the festival but I have a sneaking suspicion it’s going to be my favourite. If you enjoy stunning visuals backed up by a great yet classic story, you have to watch this mesmerising piece.

 

Details:

One plays at Factory Theatre Mainspace

 

Performances:

Friday August 5th 7:30 PM
Sunday August 7th 12:00 PM
Tuesday August 9th 5:00 PM
Thursday August 11th 10:00 PM
Saturday August 13th 3:00 PM
Sunday August 14th 5:00 PM

In photo Amber Borotsik