The Salvage Vanguard is one of the most respected experimental theatre companies in the city, so when one hears that the premise for their latest show, Guest by Courtesy, is basically “two cousins meet up for tea”, it's not unusual to be a bit surprised. Despite the premise, however, artistic director Jenny Larson and company regular Hannah Kenah, who both starred in and wrote the piece, are able to bring a real originality into this tale of an afternoon tea, transforming a theatre staple in an explosive evening of unexpected twists. With basic sets, consisting of little more than a couch, a few curtains, and mostly invisible tea accessories, the play depends mostly on the power of its actors, with the help of a gorgeous score by the ever-fantastic Graham Reynolds, to set its scene, and the girls (and guy) do just that with gusto.
In Guest by Courtesy, Kenah has created more than just a mere play, but also a kind of "actor's test". The play puts both of its lead actresses through a physical and mental gauntlet that many actors would be unable to make it through, but luckily, both actresses perform with aplomb, attacking their roles with a dazzling combination of energy and restraint. The play is structured in a very unique way, with moments of snappy dialogue tempered with long silence, or laughing fits, or slow motion wrestling, all underscored by Reynolds gorgeous piano tunes. It leaves audience unsure of just what might happen next, keeping the whole experience fresh for its entire running time. The duo is joined by Jason Hays, who may not spend much time on stage, but makes the most of it, from his first real moment (a simple exclamation bringing one of the biggest laughs of the night), to his more extended stay as a husband unsure of his own sexuality.
Guest by Courtesy is a comedy that sneaks up on you, the laughs coming when you least expect them. Kenah's script is whipsmart and dazzlingly original, relying as much as physicality as witty dialogue, with repartee and attitude that is glorious to behold. Its a piece that turns the comedy of etiquette on its head, shaking all the piece loose and putting them back together in the strangest combination imaginable. In the hands of less skilled writer, it all could have been a mess, but this actor and critic has proven herself to a true talent.
Salvage Vanguard has created a piece of experimental theatre that is still palatable to more casual theatre goers, exploring a world that is at once eerily familiar and stunningly unique. Kenah and Larson have made names for themselves in the past, but here cement they themselves as two of the top performers, and writers, in town. It's not a play for everyone, with a strange pacing and structure, but those willing to take a leap of faith will find themselves well rewarded.
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