The Break of Day review showcases Kat Stewart's superb performance in a deeply moving portrait of Australia's working class. This new play by Steve Rodgers, now showing at the theatre, tackles issues of poverty, class, and structural inequality with subtlety and power.
Plot and Setting
Set in the fictional town of Burra Creek, the play follows Pam (Kat Stewart), a warehouse worker on a night shift, and her daughter Rae, a talented student. The story explores their struggles and dreams of escape. Pam's alcoholic father Pop moves in, adding to the cramped flat's tensions, while Rae navigates a budding romance with the charming Jedediah.
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Kat Stewart's Performance
Stewart delivers a nuanced portrayal of a woman who feels invisible in society. Her soliloquies reveal a deep sense of erasure and determination to give her daughter a better life. The audience sees her resilience and vulnerability in equal measure, making her character both relatable and heartbreaking.
Themes of Class and Inequality
Rodgers' writing exposes the harsh realities of the working class, contrasting with the middle-class solipsism often seen in theatre. The play is a welcome addition to Australian drama, offering a rare glimpse into the lives of those who are often overlooked. The warehouse setting, designed by Anna Cordingley, creates an atmosphere of unremitting oppression and faux bonhomie, perfectly complementing the narrative.
Supporting Cast
Sherry-Lee Watson as Rae brings youthful energy and desperation, while Richard Piper as Pop adds complexity and pathos. Theo Clarke's Jedediah offers a charming counterpoint, and Chum Ehelepola as Sanjeeva, Pam's manager and childhood friend, adds a charged dynamic. The ensemble works seamlessly together, elevating the material.
Comparison with Other Australian Plays
| Play | Theme | Working Class Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Break of Day | Poverty and aspiration | High |
| The Drover's Wife | Outback resilience | Medium |
| Cloudstreet | Family and community | Medium |
Key Takeaways
- Kat Stewart delivers a career-best performance.
- The play addresses important social issues rarely seen on stage.
- Steve Rodgers' writing is both subtle and moving.
- The production design effectively creates a sense of oppression.
- It's a must-see for anyone interested in contemporary Australian theatre.
FAQ
FAQ
What is Break of Day about?
Break of Day is a play about a working-class mother, Pam, who works in a warehouse to support her daughter's education, while dealing with family and social pressures.
Who stars in Break of Day?
The play stars Kat Stewart as Pam, Sherry-Lee Watson as Rae, Richard Piper as Pop, and Theo Clarke as Jedediah.
Why is Break of Day important for Australian theatre?
It addresses issues of class and structural inequality that are rarely explored in Australian plays, offering a fresh perspective on the working class experience.
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