Underneath Ms Archer

The sudden shattering of Kelly Archer’s (Louise Siversen) world as a senior flight attendant and the consequent shaming social media storm is an unlikely beginning to a magical fable about mistakes, guilt and taking responsibility. But then magic happens, as a dishevelled man, William Marshall (Peter Houghton) mysteriously appears. He doesn’t speak English and is as confused as Kelly.

Kelly’s not so beloved mother has recently passed away and Kelly initially assumes he is one of her mother’s boyfriends. But then, more magic happens while he is in the shower, and he emerges clean and speaking English, though still very medieval.

At first, Kelly and William are wary and suspicious but grow together as their conversation divulges secrets, touches on past and present pains and delves into the weight of their mistakes. Mixed in with pithy one liners and physical humour, they challenge and comfort each other

The actors are supported by a grand set (Sophie Woodward and Jacob Battista) and costumes (Karine Larche). The lighting (Bronwyn Pringle), and sound and music (J David Franzke) are excellent.

The real magic of this play comes from the consummate skill of Louise Siversen, Peter Houghton and their support crew. They have created a wonderous fable. The audience clapped and clapped and did not want the story to end.

Ruth Richter

Photographer: Darren Gill