‘Is a Memory Stored Just Within the Brain?’ – Tiresia, The Etcetera Theatre, Camden, London. 12.07.2017

I was delighted to be invited to return to the Etcetera Theatre in Camden for the newest production from the Golden Age Theatre Company. Having seen their past two productions The Ressurectionist, and Boy Stroke Girl, I was excited to see what next they had in store!

One of the best things I love about Golden Age Theatre Company, is you never truly know what you are about to watch. But, you defiantly go away remembering. I have also come to realise that writer and director Ian Dixon Potter has a common themes within his productions – or the ones I have seen, and that is identity, gender, and acceptance. Each displaying such strong storylines that leave the audience guessing, reflecting, and pondering. Tiresia is no different.

Tiresia tells the story of a young artist Tiresia, who has recently been involved in an ‘accident.’ She is a protegee of a famous artist Arthur – who has also mysteriously ‘left the country’. When we first Tiresia, it is in a old pub with Arthur and we see that both know each other fairly well, but learn that something has changed within their relationship. Through conversations with partners, friends, and new friends we start to learn more of Tiresia’s story and past, and her reluctance to provide the full truth up until the end. But mainly we see someone who just wants to be accepted once again into a life that she enjoyed and be with those she loved. For her it is easy, but for some its a little more than they can take – something the audience too question what would we do?

Its a strong story, with great meaning. Incorporating Greek Mythology (Reference to the Title) and Psychology also within it also gives it a twist, that gets the mind ticking. Although at times the science in the story was long winded and could have been reduced to focus on the main points, it still made me learn something I didn’t before and suited the story. Answering questions such as  Why is she suddenly fluent in Italian having not studied the language? Why does she have such vivid memories of past events of places and people whom others say it never happened? – you will need to see to understand, as I do not want to give too much away.

The Cast tonight was:

Tiresia – Natasha Killam

Harold – Albert Clack

Alice and Celia – Louise Morell

Laura – Marissa Joseph

A small yet strong cast, Natasha takes on the complex character of Tiresia. She demonstrated great portrayal in the role, seeing that she understood the character and feelings throughout. Albert Clack who played Harold, we see standing beside Tiresia the only friend who has, a loveable character and one that we can say we all have in our lives. His granddaughter Laura is played by Marissa, a strong independent woman who is not afraid to say it as it is and display what she likes, and whom she wants. When we watch her learn the truth of Tiresia’s path, we understand the emotions that she is facing through her body language splendidly. Louise Morell plays two roles within this production and does it with ease, displaying two completely different characters within the story excellently.

I’m never disappointed when I walk away from a Golden Age Theatre production, as all of their productions has stayed with me no leaving. It has also supported me with how I look on life and others, thinking twice before I act to those around me. Tiresa for one shows that it is the person inside that truly counts, and although identity can be changed you need to remember they still have the same heart or mind for that matter. Ian Dixon Potter does it again, leaving me to look forward to the next production.

Tiresa is playing it final week at the Etcetera Theatre in Camden, London until the 16th July. For Further information go here.