Review: Waterproof

The cast of Waterproof.

Waterproof
Starring: Anthony Couroupis, Marita Fox, Kasia Kaczmarek, Tristan Meecham and Alice Robinson
Appearing at: Melbourne City Baths

Upon entering the space it became evident that the first row of the audience was wearing rain ponchos. It seemed those daring enough to get in first and sit cross-legged by Waterproof’s stage were in for a visceral experience. The ‘stage’ in this scenario is actually the Melbourne City Baths pool, which becomes a platform for the rich and sublime dreamscape-nightmare that leaves poncho and non-poncho wearers equally transfixed.

Waterproof explores the idea of struggle: the battle with one’s inner self in order to understand the world. The almost childlike characters attempt to interact with and understand each other and their environment – a place unknown and dangerous.

Clad in black swimwear, the performers are thrust into a place they must make sense of. For the most part it’s a case of each for him or herself. A man is forced from a change room; masked and confused he makes his way to the water and eventually submerges himself. There is a sense of foreboding and anxiety. A woman fills a bucket with water; she is being watched. She does this many times. A demonic horse-headed girl hovers over these people from above as they struggle. A post-apocalyptic beekeeper enters the space; they hide. Helpless bodies struggle in the poolside, wet, unable to move limbs. These images flow and reappear and each time the stakes get higher, the frenzy greater and with each new layer there is a greater sense of sadness, decay and beauty as the characters become desperate to find meaning and answers.

While disjointed and chaotic, Waterproof’s flow of images creates a journey of sorts and despite the fury of most the action, the performers work almost soundlessly in a reality-heightened state: it’s primarily physical theatre draped by an evocative soundscape by Liam Barton. The combination of aquatic audio and distorted melodic guitar is, at times, incredibly moving. In moments of near stillness, almost calm, the recorded poetic prose by Simon McInerney creates a skewed narrative. Much like hearing small snippets from a storybook out of order, the imagination is cued to take what it will, as it pleases, to make sense of these five characters’ inner worlds.

In the minimalistic space, the pared-back costuming works well. Much of the performers’ bodies can be seen, the physical tension evident. Black fabric against blue water ensures the physical movement is clear despite modest lighting. There is almost a sexual tone to the masks and pieces of cloth that become both costume and prop: this creates an edgy counterpoint to the innocence of those inhabiting the space.

Performer Anthony Couroupis’s physical engagement with the work is intoxicating and Alice Robinson’s solo moments in the water provide periods of reprieve and beauty away from the intensity of the other action. Director Marita Fox has taken some admirable risks with her cast and most of them pay off, though at times there is a need for more clarity in what is happening.

The core elements of Waterproof are well meshed, though there is one jarring moment. Out of nowhere another character arrives – a non-cast member, I won’t spoil the happening by giving away detail – but in this segment there is a sense of genuine concern from the audience for the safety of a particular performer. This intrusion breaks the spell that has been so beautifully cast until now and our suspension of disbelief is shattered somewhat.

Waterproof delivers intensity on all fronts. The senses are loaded; emotions strung tight like an elastic band about to flick. If you need a storyline and a guiding hand for your trip to the theatre, Waterproof won’t satisfy; However, if risk is your bag you’ll leave the poolside with a sense of sadness, and elation for having been there to experience it.

Waterproof is at the Melbourne City Baths for three more shows: a “Midnight Special” on Thursday 29 April; Friday 30 April and Saturday 1 May. Tickets are strictly limited and selling fast: book here.

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