The Normal Heart

The State Theatre Company South Australia’s production of Larry Kramer’s 1985 autobiographical drama, The Normal Heart, is a complete triumph. Directed by Dean Bryant, designed by Jeremy Allen, with lighting by Nigel Livings, sound by Andrew Howard, original music by Hilary Kleinig, and an exceptional cast of actors, this production, whilst honouring and respecting the original, breathes new life into this powerful play.

The production opens with 1980s ‘gay’ dance-party classic – New Order’s “Bizarre Love Triangle” – performed by the entire cast on stage; then segues into the opening scene at doctor’s waiting room to begin the story of Ned Weeks, played by STCSA’s artistic director, Mitchell Butel. The cast remain on-stage throughout the entire production, as if they are silent witnesses to the unfolding drama.

Ned Weeks is Larry Kramer, one of the most important, influential, and controversial late-twentieth and twenty-first century’ss American ‘gay’ activists. The Normal Heart charts his battle with bureaucratic, political, and community complacency, indifference, hostility, and fear, when the HIV/AIDS began its national and international spread in the 1980s. It is a story of bafflement, outrage, and courage in the face of external and internal adversity. It is the story of an activist and as with any activist, there is a price to pay, which includes the losing of friendships and loved ones. In a way, this production of The Normal Heart complements a previous STCSA production – Elena Carapetis’ re-working of Sophocles’ Antigone. Antigone is also an activist – and pays the price with her death. Ned Weeks doesn’t die, but he does experience death – of friends, colleagues, and partner, Felix Turner, beautifully played by Ainsley Melham.

Whilst the socio-political drama of The Normal Heart is the primary story, there is, however, within this drama a romance - between Ned Weeks and his handsome younger partner, Felix Turner. As played by Mitchell Butel and Ainsley Melham, this relationship is the heart and soul of this production – they are truly wonderful – charming, passionate, intelligent, funny, vulnerable, and moving. These characters exemplify something that Ned Weeks constantly and aggressively asserts throughout the play; that if ‘gay’ men are to achieve a sense of pride, then they must define and identify themselves beyond their sexuality. In a play full of powerful scenes and speeches, Ned Weeks delivers an incredibly important statement and declaration about ‘gay’ history and commitment to fighting for ‘gay’ rights. I have seen this speech done many times, often angry and passionate. Mitchell Butel, however, spoke quietly, giving this speech a profound emotional depth and poignancy. Truly wonderful.

This is just one thing in a production full of highlights; not least being Emma Jones’ Dr Emma Brookner, and her impassioned speech in Act 2, that (as with other moments) was applauded by the audience, that climaxed at the end of the show with a truly deserved standing ovation.

This is the first production of a ‘gay’ play by the STCSA in many years. It can only be hope that this marks the beginning of many more. For this to happen, however, this production needs the support and attendance of the Adelaide and South Australian LGBTQIA+ community. I encourage you to go. This is a terrific play and production about a pivotal moment in the ‘gay’ history of the world. It is vital to claim that history as it is part of our identity – our unique identity. Plus – it is a truly excellent night at theatre , ‘live’ theatre at its best, that is well worth the price of admission – and more. Something you won’t forget.

Highly recommended. 4.5 stars.

Tony Knight

Photographer: Matt Byrne