In its representation of the difficulty Asian-Australian creatives experience in producing theatre that is both true to their lived experience and commercially viable, Short Blanket by Matt Bostock, directed by Tiffany Wong (Three Fat Virgins), tells a story familiar to many historically marginalised groups. That is, that each new generation will approach tackling discrimination differently – and that a group divided is a group more easily defeated.

Lainey has written a play based on her experience of racism as an Asian-Australian woman and has a chance to see it on a main stage – if she’s willing to compromise a little to on scripting to ensure maximum audience appeal. As her play undergoes review after review, the rehearsal space becomes a place of frustration rather than creation, and each member of the cast, crew and business must consider what success looks like in their pursuit of a diverse theatre industry.

Each character represents the stereotypical motivation of their generation. Gloria (Monica Russell) has fought the good fight for decades and realised that to get to a senior position, compromise is integral. It’s the baby boomer mentality of ‘that’s how it’s always been done.’ Russell performs the part well, but I wish that we heard more about her story, and the way she has reached this mindset. Camille (Sayuri Narroway) sits on the fence, Narroway an alarmingly accurate consummate people pleaser. Lainey (Andrea Magpulong) and Dominique (Dominique Purdue) are our young artists who know that in this day and age there is an audience for every play and aren’t afraid to push boundaries in the name of authenticity. Their characters are the most fully formed, and their acting chops on full show as they each experience a myriad of emotions throughout the rollercoaster of rehearsals. Finally, Joey (Joseph Tanti) performs allyship well until it becomes a little too pushy in asking him to confront his own privilege.

The message of this story is important, and each character performing an important role, however, the execution of the story is lacking in flow and oversupplying in dialogue. It is quite tricky to track the movement of time as it jumps back and forth, and although the importance of trusting one’s audience is emphasised repeatedly in the story, the verbose and at times overly formal dialogue suggests that Bostock doesn’t entirely trust his.

A compelling concept and a fresh perspective, Short Blanket is a bit rough around the edges but I’m looking forward to seeing what this writer does next.

Purchase your ticket to Short Blanket here.

Short Blanket, Slanted Theatre | Tasting Notes

Aussie Season	18 May to 3 June 2023, Meraki Arts Bar, Slanted Theatre
Ticket $	$30-35
Writer	Matt Bostock
Director	Tiffany Wong
Theatre Type & Genre	Play, Drama
See it if you like	Fresh perspectives