Review: Talking People, Underbelly Boulevard

When the director Richard Vincent takes the stage and mentions audience participation, the man next to me groans. A typical reaction, because when you hear the term audience participation, as Richard explains, you expect comedy or some kind of forced humiliation. This is not what Talking People is about. You can enjoy one of their performances without getting involved, or you can raise your hand and ask a question. The audience are placed at the forefront, allowing them to engage with and shape the story unfolding before them. Some were so enthused by the performance that, as it went on, questions were shouted out, too impatient to wait to be picked. The questions come thick and fast, and the responses become more and more complex, sometimes veering into rabbit holes and drifting away from the original question. One audience member shouts, “Is anyone going to answer my question?!” as the cast goes down one of these tunnels, much to the amusement of the audience. As the first half progresses and we see the true character of Mark, the coach, come to light, someone shouts from the balcony, “Can we stop shaming women?!” The night is infused with passion, both on stage and off.

In the first half, we are introduced to six actors; a five-a-side football team and their coach. The characters’ roles within the team are decided by audience members chosen by Vincent, and their ability levels are determined by a pack of cards. We meet Tiger (Nkechi Simms), the ditsy, talentless striker with questionable reasons for being on the team, Nell (Maggie Musgrove), the defender who brings humour to the team but also takes the sport very seriously, Shan (Adeola Yemitan), a young mother who could have gone pro, Claire (Holli Dempsey), the goalie going through a breakup, and June (Tegan Short), the captain who some of the team believe lacks the leadership qualities needed. The team is led by their coach, Mark (David Ajao), who is revealed to be the root of most of the team’s problems as the night unravels. Through questioning and relationship dynamics decided by Vincent’s bag of pain, we discover that Mark is a terrible coach, sleeping with two of the team members, turning up late to training, and failing to lead in every way possible.

In the second half, we find ourselves watching the moments a drawn match against the bottom-of-the-league side. The tension is palpable as Tiger and Shan argue about loyalty and motivations, while Claire tries to keep the peace. We then see June step into a leadership role, which leads to Mark really revealing his inner world. There are moments of pure comedy, and moments where a hush instantly envelops the audience in shock at outbursts from the characters. The actors are incredibly skilled at setting the tone and pace, reacting to each other, and using the truths revealed in the questioning from Act One as part of the performance. The process feels organic and natural, flowing beautifully from beat to beat.

Earlier this month, stories began circulating online about an AI actor, Tilly Norwood, created by talent studio Xicoia, who is being scouted by talent agencies. The acting world reacted with horror, with SAG-AFTRA stating that creativity “should remain human-centred”. Talking People shows that the real magic happens when humans, bringing their own life experiences, come together to create. Live improvised theatre like this depends entirely on the talent and skill of the actors and director. Alongside the subtle nuances, reactions, and the passion of the audience, every night with Talking People is completely unique.

Directed by Richard Vincent
Produced by Elina Saleh Franck

Talking People run for one night only at Underbelly Boulevard