Walking out of The Shepherd’s Hut, I felt a heaviness that lingered long after the show’s end.
This is the Black Swan Theatre Company’s adaptation from the book of the same name, by acclaimed writer Tim Winton, and while I’m left with unanswered questions, I’m satisfied and fulfilled by the performance.
Photo credit: Philip Gostelow
The play follows fifteen-year-old Jaxie Clackton, played with striking vulnerability and fury by Ryan Hodson. Fleeing the trauma of his past across Western Australia’s barren saltlands, Jaxie is searching for an escape from his memories. In the isolation of Australia’s wilderness, he finds Fintan MacGillis, a disgraced Irish priest living in isolation in a crumbling shepherd’s hut. George Shevtsov delivers a deeply affecting performance as the broken and haunted priest, with the fragile connection between the pair becoming the emotional core of the production.
Directed by Matt Edgerton, the production is visually restrained yet effective. The sparse staging, combined with monotone projections and delicate lighting adds a beautiful simplicity so as not to distract from the heavy emotions in the performances.
Equally compelling are narrators Ben Mortley and Ella Prince, whose presence blends storytelling with the manifestations of trauma. They hover as emotions linger and memories refuse to dull when you’ve experienced something like Jaxie has. You feel unsettled by its inescapable nature.
This play explores forgiveness and connection. While there are glimmers of hope, it doesn’t offer comfort or a predictable resolution. Rather, it leaves you with the weight of its emotional centre to reconcile with. Well done to the cast and crew on a strong performance.
The Shepherd’s Hut is playing at the Heath Ledger Theatre until 31st May.