When the stylistic choice is made to produce a play with minimal set, a small cast and a character driven storyline, the pressure of the show falls almost solely on the actors’ ability to work realistically within the space and present a believable yet fascinating relationship to entice the audience. Fine Line: A GreySpace Production manages to excel in its stylistic choice and create a realistic dynamic without crutches of realistic set.
The play follows teenager Mil and her counsellor Josie reconnecting by chance after 2 years. This rekindling is inter-spliced with flashbacks to their initial relationship, which constantly blurs the lines between a professional relationship and a deeper emotional connection. As they reminisce about the past, you watch how their bond initially fragmented years ago, leaving both girls without closure.
While arguably the play took longer than expected to clarify key aspects of the characters, such as ages and how they know each-other, this delay is a testament to the richness and intricacies of the dynamic presented rather than any actors shortcomings. The play initially introduces rather common character tropes, with Mil as the typical confident party girl and Josie as uptight and working by the book. These almost stock characterisations were presented as anything but boring or superficial. Both actresses provided clear nuances in the characterisations and a more intriguing power dynamic than the audience are initially led to believe. The passage of time is accurately and subtly captured by the actors in a way that was not only enjoyable but made it easier to establish the sense of past and present.
One of the most enjoyable aspects was the integration of the audience that sought to invite the audience into the plays setting of a lively bar, with the character of Mil interacting in character individually with members of the audience before, showing a clear talent for commanding a room unrehearsed and helped her character seem even more real. However, the moment of invited singalong to Sweet Caroline under the guise of a karaoke song within the fictitious bar, while lighthearted and effective in rousing the crowd, provided almost a jarring break from the play’s heavy emotional discussions of trauma and parental issues.
The experience of watching Fine Line: A GreySpace Production is not one to disappoint, and is sure to remain a memorable play, leaving you desperate to understand the characters and their behaviour. If you prioritise the human connection and its intricacies, over a play with visibly rich set and costumes, then this play is truly perfect for you.
Reviewer: Amelia Phillpotts
Reviewed: 12th July 2024
North West End UK Rating: