Perpetual Frustration Machine

Slick, powerful, purifying and redemptive, Perpetual Frustration Machine is a spirited energizing show that has been superbly crafted by Zebastian Hunter with playwright Stephen Sewell, sound designer Ian Moorhead and associate director Benjamin Sheen. 

The set (Stephanie Howe) is shiny black with glowing wires falling from a basic grid or circus rig.

It commences with four performers, with beautifully tuned bodies, moving from corner to corner of the Theatre Works performance space - to peruse a basic human endeavor.  As the switching becomes and more frenetic the functions morph into chaos as expressed through the body.  Then the piece moves into an explanation and expression of how we are driven by desire using metaphors embedded in circus skills. 

Ideas in Sewell’s text emanate from Jacques Lacan’s psychoanalytical philosophical theories on ‘desire’, ‘jouissance’ and the ‘death drive’.   Somehow this dense academic theory is offered so lucidly as to be congruent; the relentless drive of desire, is at its root, the source of often overwhelming frustration. It is as frustrating, as it is imperative - to be driven, and even thwarted, by desire to remain alive.  

Text, performers, sound, lighting, set and costumes all meld together to enlighten.

There is use of some basic implements such as an oven and a table.  However just about everything is expressed through the human body via the amazing physical skills of the performers.  Nothing is out of place and everything moves ever so smoothly and seamlessly.

The four marvelously skilled circus performers (Debra Batton, Adam O’Connor-McMahon, Seth Scheuner and Stephanie Benson) voice Sewell’s text in perfect synchronicity with their physical expression, which is also endorsed and informed by the stunning sound design (Ian Moorehead) and atmospheric lighting (Richard Vabre). 

Although dense in meaning somehow Perpetual Frustration Machine makes perfect sense on a visceral level.  It would be fascinating to view this work without the text - just as a dance/circus piece - to see if it has the same gratifying effect.

It is cathartic, energizing and liberating.  The four performers ultimately swing in the air, on trapezes, expressing a rewarding sense of liberation.   This is such a fitting release, much appreciated by the audience.

Perpetual Frustration Machine is rich and reflective – a work to ruminate on.  It is a terrific end of year gem of exceptionally skillfully wrought theatre.

Authentic, enthralling and very satisfying.

Suzanne Sandow

Photographer: Jodie Hutchinson

Director – Zebastian Hunter

Set and Costume Designer – Stephanie Howe

Sound Designer – Ian Moorhead

Lighting Design – Richard Vabre

Production Manager – Dawn Holland

Cast:  Debra Batton, Adam O’Connor-McMahon, Seth Scheuner and Stephanie Benson