Review by Panayiota
‘Esther Hicks is Speaking Vibrationally,’ directed by Elizabeth Millington, is a parody based on the life of Esther and Jerry Hicks — a real life spiritual couple who travel the world channelling the teachings of Abraham, a spirit collective of Source Energy offering a new paradigm of consciousness.
When it comes to all things spiritual, generally speaking, it seems people are either really into it or they’re complete skeptics.
So, right about now, you’re probably thinking, ‘What the? I thought this was a theatre review’ and yes, it is.
Claire Pearson (actor, writer, producer, comedian) and Kyle Walmsley (RAW National finalist, 2012), incredibly personify Esther and Jerry Hicks and the rise of Esther’s work with Abraham.
Having been in Esther’s presence myself many years ago, I can vouch that Claire’s impersonation of Esther was impeccably presented, particularly when creating the transition she experiences while bringing through Abraham’s voice.
It’s what some people would refer to as ‘another worldly experience’ where her voice/tone changed, as did her physicality. Her demeanour changed and this brought a different kind of confidence.
Kyle’s Jerry was well aligned with Claire. Their rapport was emotionally engaging. It was obvious that both actors did their research.
Their comedic prowess and timing came through as they took risks and interpretive creative license. There were little twists and turns in their relationship and this was skilfully conveyed in their dialogue using the American accent.
Claire comfortably stepped through the Fourth Wall to deliver snippets of wisdom to several audience members. A kind of ‘reading,’ if you will.
The interaction, though humourous, was a couple of short and sweet interactions, however, I wondered what it would’ve been like if they consisted of more in-depth messages with guidance.
Kudos to Stage Manager, Ava Moschetti, Lighting Designer/Operator, Charlie Graham and Sound Operator, Ziggy Enoch, for collaborating all supporting elements. They created an atmosphere which enabled the audience to clearly differentiate where everything was taking place.
The stage was minimally set. To the audiences' right, was the Hicks’ home — their living room and to their left, a simple carpet, stool and microphone brought us into the performance venue where Esther wasn’t Esther any more.
The lighting design reflected each space well. A coolness in the performance space. A warmth at home and when things got heated, a deep red.
Sound was accompanied by a visual backdrop; images which corresponded to content. There was music and songs along with a special appearance from the real Esther Hicks.
PIP Theatre is a well-chosen space for this production and is currently running it’s Toucan Club Cabaret and Arts Festival of which ‘Esther Hicks is Speaking Vibrationally’ is a part.
As a blackbox theatre space, it transforms itself making each production a truly unique experience. It is located central to Brisbane so easily accessible by bus, train or car.
This evening’s performance started and ended with laughter. The actors were having fun on stage. The audience was having fun.
I commend everyone for their work. Their insight exposed their braveness to bring such a lighthearted point of view to what society can deem to be an unconventional and controversial topic. Are these ideas real? Do we need to ponder on them? I’ll leave that up to you.
But it’s storytelling like this that helps to remind us how important it is to enjoy life, to see that there’s fun in everything.
Oddly enough, one of Esther/Abraham-Hicks’ books is called, ‘Life is supposed to be fun.” Go figure.
I highly recommend it.
Image Supplied