An Incomplete Encyclopaedia Of Hugs: Throw Open Your Arms… ~ Theatre Review

[THEATRE ~ SA]

Goodwood Theatre and Studios, Wed 6 Nov, 2024.

I already know about the 20 second rule for hugs, and I have a fairly good idea about their health benefits, gleaned from my own experience. This show offers much more than the basic facts, being a warm, lively conversation about life and yes, death. The minute details of relationships are revealed in their various forms, with lover, family and friends. These stories unfold smoothly, mixed with the decisions that come with the messy matters of getting involved in life, the inventory of hugs, sometimes sharing the final passage with those in palliative care, and asking again, ‘What’s in a name?’.

The naturally nurturing properties of hugs are extensively explored, and it is abundantly clear they are pivotal for not just sustaining well-being but bringing joy, bonding, and a boundless bounty of energy that we can all access. Ultimately we are all worthy of a hug, especially at the worst of times. As the title of this show suggests, the ‘incomplete’ part can mean not only that the hugger has many more hugs ahead, but that we can hardly begin to understand the power and potential healing of those hugs.

Poetic script segments are planted throughout the prose. They pop up regularly providing fresh surprises, and adding to the structural strands woven together. Assonance, rhythm and some rhyming make them more like song verses, or a recurring pattern of rap/beat poetry. The musical soundscape is mostly dreamy and ethereal, almost unnoticeable with subtle touches relating to the text. Until it erupts occasionally with energetic bursts to mark some celebration point.

Claire Glenn gives a compelling and impressive performance, interpreting Sarah Peters words with consummate ease, considering the marathon solo effort. The design is cleverly comforting, and the direction by Eliza Lovell is so good it appears as minimal as the staging. The pace meanders at times, somewhat in keeping with the random numbering of the hugs. We wonder which number is next, and is there an ultimate number one hug? You will need to be there and join this deliberately delicate, delightful journey through the wonderful world of hugs to find out. In two words: hugs help.

4.5 Stars

David Cronin

An Incomplete Encyclopaedia Of Hugs continues at Goodwood Theatre and Studios, at various times, until Sun 10 Nov.
Click HERE to purchase your tickets.

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