‘I left with more questions about the story than I arrived with’
What would you do if you found yourself floating listlessly on a spaceship, inching closer and closer to deep space? What if you weren’t alone, but didn’t recognise or understand your companions on your never-ending journey? How would you define your purpose? These are all questions posed, somewhat long-windedly, by Emma Kompf’s SpaceEater, Kraken Theatre Company’s debut at the Camden Fringe. It’s a compelling idea for a play – it reminds me of some of the more existential episodes of Doctor Who, with somewhat of a Black Mirror tinge. It’s execution, however, leaves something to be desired.
The performances of the five-man strong company have clearly been carefully rehearsed, but they are dulled by a script, or perhaps direction, that leaves one too many pauses. Corey Lee has fantastic instincts as the frenetic Astronaut, appropriately scaling his performance up and down when faced with the reality of his character’s situation. Gabrielle Crook, his pseudo-love interest, and one of the (presumably) extraterrestrial beings who appeared mysteriously on the ship, plays her character of Reverie with a quiet anger – which is a shame, as she really shines in the more frantic moments of the piece,
Rounding out the unnamed aliens are Tyler Reuben as Athymy – who takes a while to warm up, but once he does, plays the role of anxious protector with ease, and drives the heart of the piece. Alice Bain, as Onism, is the de facto leader, is equal parts calm and compelling. It’s the late appearance of George Goddard as the piece’s antagonist, Hiareth, that begins to kick the action into gear. His dynamic scenes with Lee, Reuben, and Crook provide a bit of context that the story desperately needs a little earlier than halfway in. Indeed, most of the dialogue is spoken in heavy-handed metaphor that tells us little about the character’s intentions. I left with more questions about the story than I arrived with – which is perhaps the show’s aim.
I find Kompf’s concept very compelling – and there are moments, particularly towards the end, where I caught a glimpse of how strong this piece could become. The passion and dedication of the company is evident, and I hope this is the start of many Camden Fringes to come for them.