The Universe Has Your Back

The Universe Has Your Back is a heartfelt comedy written and directed by Spotlight Theatre Company’s own Helen Maden, a show that follows a group of friends moving through the ups and downs of life, with the guidance of the universe.

The story follows four friends - Quinn, played by Jessikah Paul; Connie, portrayed by Brian Low; Alex, played by Amy McDonald; and Rachel, portrayed by Stephanie Puggioni. Each friend struggles with their own problems - friendship complications, messy relationships; the difficulty of processing loss.

This casting was brilliantly done, the acting by these actresses, as well as the rest of the cast, Diana Scott as Meadow, Richard Staines as Taj and Corrine Le Claire as Lynn, was absolutely incredible. Each actor brought such emotion to the characters, and the tightness of the friends was so real. Everyone brought a fantastic take to the characters, creating distinct personalities that meshed well with the other personalities but was different enough to remind us that just because you’re best friends, doesn’t mean you are all the same.

he story was incredibly well written by Helen Maden, each character’s story so individual yet so beautifully intertwined with the rest of the group. Also a great reminder that everyone has issues and everyone’s problems are different. Sometimes we can choose what the outcome will be other times it’s beyond your control.

With topics of DV, medical concerns and loss, the story handled them in a respectful manner and were given the proper attention and care they needed while still ensuring each character’s problems were equally tackled.

While the synopsis for the story was mostly accurate, what was different was the storyline for Alex. The released summary claimed that Alex would struggle with a new lecturer at university, however, it appeared in the play that despite a mention or two of the disinterested lecturer, Alex was flourishing at university, and, to a degree, acted almost as the personification of the “universe”, guiding her friends through their troubles. Regardless, this personification was a beautiful way to bring out the message of the universe having your back.

Stage construction by Butch Bernet and Peter Maden, and Set Design by Helen Maden, was absolutely fantastic. With the play mostly taking place in Quinn’s apartment, the setup was the perfect combination between lack-of-money minimalist, but full of character that speaks to the personality of the owner. The construction was wonderfully done, beautiful and homey and reminiscent of a single woman in her twenties.

The lighting design by Leonnie Jones, operated by Jemma Gibson, Nina Boros, Ariana Sinner, Leonnie Jones and Ellie Widdison was very well done, making the stage bright and welcoming when in the apartment, and cold and dark when it focused on one individual talking on the phone about the different problems happening in their life.

Sound design by Helen Maden, with operation by Simon Fox was also well done, each actor’s voice was crisp and clear, and the actors voices carried beautifully throughout the theatre. However, at some points, sounds from backstage were a bit loud, and could be heard when the actors were onstage.

Overall, The Universe Has Your Back is a very beautiful play that was so heartwarming, quirky and relatable, and tackled issues of love, loss and friendship magnificently. A wonderful show to see on your night out.

Marina Cerra

Photographer: Clay English (Vargo Studios)

Find out more at https://www.spotlighttheatre.com.au/