RIFT, Traverse Theatre Review
Written by Penny for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
This new play from American writer Gabriel Jason Dean is inspired by his real-life relationship with his brother and asks whether you can love someone whose beliefs you hate. Two brothers – one a progressive novelist and one a white supremacist convicted of murder – navigate their family bond.
The story tracks the brothers’ relationship over the years of Inside Brother’s incarceration, their reunions are awkward as Outside Brother maintains contact but struggles to deal with his brother’s conviction and beliefs. Despite this, their interactions do at times fall into the effortless banter you can get between siblings, bringing some lighter moments to offset the darker tones of the story. Dean’s writing does not flinch from covering sensitive topics – racism, homophobia, childhood abuse and trauma – and presents them in a way that gives some understanding into the history that has shaped the two men. It’s very well written and structured and as the truth behind the brothers’ history comes out, it does feel possible to separate the men from their actions.
The two actors give very strong performances. The “showier” role goes to the Inside Brother, possibly as this is the more difficult life to relate to. Matt Monaco is superb in the role, with a snarling intensity that is extremely intimidating – his physicality imposing is enough, that’s before you see the tattoos …
Outside Brother is played by Blake Stadnik, a role that could easily be overshadowed by the aggression and presence of his brother, but he more than holds his own, his reactions to the violence, divisive opinions and then the exposure of his own suppressed family history are all the more impactful given his own “snowflake” lifestyle and milder character.
RIFT is a thought-provoking piece of theatre, excellently directed by Ari Laura Kreigh and performed by Monaco and Stadnik. Its ambiguous ending allows for some element of hope that what seems like an irrevocable breakdown in a relationship can possibly be overcome. In a political climate that sees families torn apart for their contrasting views, it’s a timely and impactful commentary.
RIFT has sold out its Fringe run at the Traverse Theatre (venue15) , but you can find out more about the play and check for any Returns until Sunday 24th August here.
★ ★ ★ ★
