A Good Death

Tempest Theatre presented this stellar production for a very short season. A beautiful story, told with understanding and great feeling, I can only wish that the season was longer and that more people were given the opportunity to appreciate this little gem of show.

Known for presenting productions with feminist themes, and with all female casts, this production looks at the process of dying through this feminist lens. When a woman is diagnosed with a fatal illness, we see her desire to control her own death against the wishes of her best friend, partner, mother and doctor.

Visually striking, with a set featuring pink and white props and costumes, the show featured a bold lighting design from Katrina Johnston.

Author Kim Parkhill is strong, forthright, and sympathetic in the central role, working well with the remaining cast and creating believable and dynamic relationships. She is at the centre of a strong cast. Eva Grace Mullaley combines unease and strong opinions with a tangible warmth. Christie Sistrunk is bright and fun, but shows great grief as the long-time best friend, while Irene Jarzabek is outstanding as a mother who knows loss too well. Amy Welsh completes the cast beautifully as a caring doctor bound by numerous pressures.

Beautifully directed, this play tackled serious issues while giving the audience the occasional laugh, and interesting characters, so that the production never becomes maudlin.

Another excellent production from Tempest.

Kimberley Shaw

Photographer: Amanda Watson