Writer: Dennis Kelly
Director: Cathal Cleary
It is very unusual that one sees a theatre production that is truly unique, however Reality Check’s opening night of Debris, at Smock Alley Theatre, really was a one-of-a-kind night of entertainment.
Debris has a powerful opening. Shane O’Regan, playing the sixteen year old Michael, takes to the stage and tells the audience a story. On his sixteenth birthday his father built an eighteen foot crucifix in the living room.
Taking place in the Boys School, the stage has been decreased in size to bring the actors and audience closer together and to emphasise the gritty, earthy feel of the play. This is reinforced by the floor covered in gravel and dirt. Low lighting, smoke, and the use of pulsating sounds create an atmosphere of tension as the audience enter.
Described in the programme as an “odyssey of pain, blood, love and loss” as the play unfolds the audience are taken on a journey to see how this family of three ended up in this situation. Michael’s sister Michelle, played by Clara Harte, is equally disturbed. Telling different stories about how she was born Michelle has created a fantasy world around her, whereas Michael ends the play with a new awareness of what it means to be alive in the world.
Debris is Kelly’s first play and also marks the first time that Debris has been performed in Dublin. Under the direction of Cleary, Debris flows as O’Regan and Harte take turns to offer their perspective and drive the narrative forward, occasionally linking together their stories and reflections. When the world is seen through their child’s eyes it seems even more absurd and confusing than usual. A thick strain of black humour runs from start to finish as Michael and Michelle try to make sense of their surroundings.
Debris is a compelling short play that never dips in intensity or drama.
Runs until 21st April 2018 | Image: Contributed
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