'Winona', presented at PIP Theatre as part of the MELT Festival 2024, is an experimental and intriguing theatre piece that defies easy explanation, but that’s part of its charm. Written by and starring Ebony Rattle, the show explores the messy realities of life, relationships, and identity through the lens of two characters: Special K (played by Ebony Rattle) and Billie (played by Stella Robinson). Over the course of an hour, we were taken on a whirlwind journey through their undefinable relationship, which is equal parts romantic, chaotic, tender, and turbulent.
The performance held my attention for the entire hour, especially impressive since it involved just two performers. Rattle and Robinson displayed a genuine chemistry, bouncing easily between various scenes. The show had a raw yet well-rehearsed quality. While I couldn't personally relate to some themes, such as the exploration of queerness or the struggles with depression, I could still value the authenticity and human element in the storytelling.
The show had an unconventional structure, with abrupt changes in thoughts and themes, similar to the chaotic mind of a neurodiverse person. This disorientation was effective, reflecting the unpredictability of the characters' lives. While the props and costumes seemed odd at first, they were purposefully used and never felt out of place.
What impressed me the most was the ambition in Rattle's writing. Winona is more than just a story; it's a statement. The themes are heavy, yet they are handled with a mix of humour and depth that maintains the audience's interest. It felt like a piece made for those who have wrestled with mental health challenges or identity questions—a deeply personal yet universal exploration.
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