Narc. Magazine Online
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Ben Robinson discovers a minimal piece of fresh and candid theatre
A stage production being stripped back to the bare bones, with only three actors and minimal prop and set design is a huge risk. However, Chilli Con Carne by Sarah Vickers, does not miss. When the three characters step onto the stage at the very beginning shrouded in red lights and singing an eerie song, I knew I was in for a brilliant performance.
Whilst I don’t want to give any spoilers for future viewers, the play took us on a journey through the complex and sometimes uncomfortable relationship between Ash (played by Sarah Vickers), her now fiancé Tom (played by Charles Maddison), and her previous girlfriend turned step-sister, Sonia (played by Tor Lighten). Although, perhaps the greatest feeling an audience member can feel when watching character relationships is uncomfortable, because it means the play feels confronting, raw, and real – and this storyline makes us stare unease in the eyes and still want more. Vickers took a massive swing with this storyline and succeeded. Not only does the production feel like the bones of something great – it also feels like a piece of fresh and candid theatre. Special mention must go to developers and creative directors Messy Kind, as well as director Hugo Papiernik.
For me, Chilli Con Carne at Newcastle Fringe Festival felt like the birth of a piece of theatre that has an amazing run ahead of it.
