The Girls in Grey
By Carolyn Bock and Helen Hopkins
Presented by The Shift Theatre in association with Theatre Works
Directed by Karen Martin, Cast: Grace – Carolyn Bock, Elsie - Olivia Connolly, Alice – Helen
Hopkins, Syd, Harry, Len, Soldier – Lee Mason, Lighting Design – Nick Merrylees, Sound Design – Nick Van Cuylenberg, Set Design – Alexander Hiller, Costume Design – Lyn Wilson
Theatre Works - April 25 to May 13
The Girls in Grey is an amalgam of
experiences of Australian Army Nurses serving in World War One. Much of the
text comes from diary entries and letters. It is a work that ‘tells it like it
really was’ through the sensibilities of the women of the era.
It is written by Helen Hopkins and Carolyn Bock over two years of
research and creative development. Real-life
experience is adapted for performance without being reinterpreted to satisfy contemporary
insights or expectations. And as such The Girls in Grey is a noteworthy
historical document that offers significant insight into social expectations
through how these women expressed themselves whilst living under great duress.
In this meaningful actor’s vehicle, all performers, and most
particularly Helen Hopkins and Carolyn Bock, excel in conveying the social
mores of the time through their well-honed expressive skills and clear
well-modulated voices. They are amply
assisted by excellent costumes designed by Lyn Wilson. Both Bock and Hopkins
convey moments of strong and moving emotional revelation.
As an insightful historical text it is no surprise that The Girls in Grey is on the VCE Drama
list. It would make an excellent touring
show that would delight members of Historical Societies.
Director Karen Martin displays deep respect for the material and the
skill of her actors by staging the whole in an uncomplicated fluid manner. The set (Alexandra Hiller) is a wooden rostrum
with a backdrop of a symbolic trench.
However the work is worthy of a more complex and subtle lighting design
(Nick Merrylees) that specifically and atmospherically signify environments. The sound scape (Nick Van Cuylenberg) is heavy
handed and lacks nuance at times.
Perhaps startling affects could be incorporated to jolt an audience into
vivid and visceral experiences of the horrors of war. However the depth of empathy and
understanding as expressed by the actors, most particularly in moments of
heightened emotional experience, is elucidating and convincing.
As the season continues this troupe of talented actors will sense
opportunities for defining environments, enhancing atmospheres and add touches
of believability.
In all, The Girls in Grey is a
sensible, well-constructed, interpreted and presented testimony of experiences
of our nurses working by the side of our soldiers in WWI.
It will move and please many people.
(For Stage Whispers)
