In the heart of Brisbane's indie theatre scene, "Scenes With Girls" was a raw, riveting exploration of female friendships. Directed by Ava Rusch, this play is a poignant, often hilarious look at the complexities and intensities of girlhood. The talented team at Salad Days Collective brought this production to life over last weekend, marking it as their second successful theatrical endeavour.
This story unfolds through 22 scenes depicting the lives of Tosh (Jasmine Prasser) and Lou (Hannah Ward); best friends navigating their early twenties. Together, they have dodged the pitfalls of romantic entanglements with men and worked hard to "deprogram themselves from societal expectations for male affection". From the second it kicks off with the girls busting moves to Charli XCX on Just Dance Wii, and throwing out Friends quotes – it hits home for other young adults who have lived with our besties, like myself.
The set at PIP Theatre, designed by the versatile Jasmine Prasser, captures the aesthetic of a millennial flat-share. From the couch and swivel chair to the clutter everywhere, and even a bathroom, it's a spot-on portrayal of that cozy, lived-in vibe that is instantly recognisable. Even their outfits – comfy trackies, overalls, and slippers - grounds the play firmly in reality.
We learn that Tosh appears to be going through a period of complete disinterest in men, while Lou is actively engaging in casual flings, keeping count of her conquests and proudly sharing details of each encounter with Tosh. The remarkable chemistry between the actresses showcases the deep, almost symbiotic bond of their characters' relationship. They constantly finish each other's sentences and thoughts, often helping the other find the right word in the middle of a conversation. It's like they have a secret language only they understand. Oftentimes, scenes will begin with hilariously out-of-context lines like "He tasted like omelette," illustrating the zany and unpredictable nature of their chats. Memorising all that dialogue would be quite the task, but these girls performed it exceptionally well, embodying two very authentic characters that made it seem as if they were truly gossiping right in front of you.
The play's dialogue, penned by Miriam Battye, is sharp and vibrant, capturing the language of best friends with startling accuracy. Battye's writing also delves into deeper themes, questioning societal norms and the pressures women face to conform to certain narratives. For instance, both girls fake enthusiasm when their friend Fran (Georgina Sawyer) announces her engagement. But Lou then proceeds to go on a wild rant, spilling all her unfiltered thoughts about Fran's impending nuptials to Tosh in a savage yet brutally honest reflection.
Fran joins their circle as their friend who is seemingly out of step with Tosh and Lou's anti-romantic philosophy. Sawyer plays this character like a mix of a grandma, a rock, and a confused pigeon. Fran's attempts to fit in with Tosh and Lou's intricate jokes are both adorable and hilarious. She exudes awkward and overly formal body language, while her far-off look of discomfort had everyone cackling. Most likely, we all have encountered a friend who resembles one of these three girls. Tosh is eccentric and tends to be excessively possessive. Lou is the truth-teller, the life of the party, and relies on Fran as a buffer for their flatmate drama. And then there's Fran, bless her heart. The loveable third wheel of the group, the epitome of predictability and a pro at long-term relationships.
As the play progresses, the strains in Tosh and Lou's relationship become more apparent. Tosh’s harsh plea for Lou to stop seeking male validation highlights the toxicity that has seeped into their friendship. Their arguments, filled with miscommunication and intense emotion, are a testament to the complexity of female friendships. The peak of their conflict – a cruel argument where hurtful words are exchanged – is a stark reminder of just how fragile these bonds can be. The play captures the pain of friendship break-ups, which can often be more devastating than romantic ones. As the heartbreak unfolds, Ward's cries of anguish, Sawyer's comforting presence, and their shared tears set against the sounds of Chapell Roan created a scene similar to that of a Netflix drama. The audience was riveted, some even moved to tears.
Director Ava Rusch, along with the creative team consisting of sound designer and dramaturg Ziggy Enoch, and lighting designer Claire Yorston, have crafted a production that captivates both visually and intellectually. The effective use of lighting and sound to shift between the 22 distinct scenes made a significant impact. "Scenes With Girls" is a play that will make you laugh, cry, and then reflect on the nature of friendships. It leaves you with a renewed appreciation for the friends who stand by you through thick and thin. It's a messy, unpredictable, yet beautifully authentic depiction of girlhood. The takeaway is crystal clear: friendships require effort, understanding, and forgiveness. So lean on your besties, cherish them, and remember that these bonds are just as significant as any romantic relationship.
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