The Process
A Play in Five dubious Acts
By Ian Robinson
Director – Ian Robinson
Associate Director – Maggie Millar
Production Manager – Cherian Jacob
Stage Manager and Lighting – Sarah McKenzie
Cast:
Ezekiel Day, Jessica Muschamp and Sean Scully
La Mama – February 4 -15 –
Wed 6.30pm, Thu,
Fri, Sat 7.30pm and Sun 4pm
The
Process coherently shines a bright light on the
outrageously inhumane way, we as a nation, are dealing with Asylum Seekers. Perhaps it states the obvious and preaches to
the converted but it is particularly accessible and has the power to galvanize. At the very least it should prompt audiences
to join Liberty Victoria who deserve much gratitude for sponsoring the play.
The work covers, in linier progression, the
plight of an ‘illegal immigrant’, who, although having experienced unspeakable
loss is optimistic that his human rights will be venerated in Australia, the
country he is eager to pledge his allegiance to. Compelling performer Ezekiel Day plays this
character Rajoo Mahalingham with moving commitment.
It is a delight to watch Sean Scully’s
refined underplaying of Immigration Ministers from both side of politics, the
slightly left of center Gottileb Shortstraw and the slightly right of center
Sly Moribund. The names say it all
really; this work is a rollicking parody fully of humour, highlighting the
shamefully brutal treatment of desperate and courageous refugees by the powers
that be.
There is a mix of acting styles. Jessica Muschamp errs towards going over the
top in her portrayal of the enthusiastic junior Lawyer Hope Springsey and
bemused Psychiatrist Dr. Maddison Attar.
This could be seen as a mismatch with the sincere and naturalistic
journey Day travels with Rajoo, and a contrast to Sean Scully’s more subtle
interpretations. However Muschamp’s
parodying of her roles highlights the ridiculous irony in the callous and
morally shocking way Rajoo’s future and very existence is potentially
obliterated.
This commendable production by skilled
veteran Writer and Director Ian Robinson has been beautifully managed by
production team Cicero’s Circle.
Warning - the season is short – don’t miss
it.
Suzanne Sandow
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