Samson

Samson is a story about three adolescents growing up in country Queensland. With the death of a friend and a new addition to the town, many of their beliefs and hopes are side tracked as they explore more questions about the meaning behind some of life's multi-layered tapestries. You can see this, too, in the author's programme notes that sensitively touch on the questions reminiscent of those living on the cusp of maturity; but you can also see why the script attracted attention with its sharp incisive dialogue, symbolic gestures and the vehicle it created for work-shopping young actors, in this case by director Kristine Landon-Smith.

And this was the shining aspect of this window into the world of a small community wracked by a variety of heartfelt emotions. And by setting the play in a remote area, conceivably an island, one had the feeling these characters were near home yet feeling isolated and possibly on top of a volcano contemplating a dramatic rise to its final phase, as intended by the creative team.

There was a succinct realism in its presentation, constructive use of timing and some very fine acting, particularly by the newcomer to town, Rabbit, played by Benjamin Creek and rising star of stage, screen and television, Ashleigh Cummings.

With a deep and thoughtful director in touch with her cast and their characters, Samson is a well-crafted production which as a play would also suit those examining the psychology and language of a cross-section of the youth of today and whether this is the direction we want to see our next generation heading.

Brian Adamson