Some mystery plotlines are less straightforward than the ones seen on Murder, She Wrote and Columbo reruns. Amateur sleuths who love solving those more emotionally complex puzzles will find plenty to enjoy with Open Space Arts’ current production of Guillem Clua’s The Swallow.
What begins as a simple voice lesson here soon turns into a twist-filled journey, tempered with true emotional catharsis. At the evening’s start, Ray, a former choir boy, seeks to engage professional voice teacher Emily in preparation for an upcoming memorial service. Despite his novice status, Emily reluctantly agrees to take this thirty-something gay man on as a client. But as the two dive into their first lesson, hidden histories are revealed and it appears the two may be intrinsically attached by a secret thread of events. Whether Ray wishes Emily harm, or vice-versa, is not ascertained into the final moments, giving the audiences a truly fun, incredibly poignant ride.
Clua layers the tonal circumstances and ultimate reveals here with skill and precision. While his story points, including deep explorations into the trauma caused by hate crimes and gun violence, are truly heartfelt, they are also layered with a sense of fun and surprise as each new piece of connective tissue between the main characters is revealed. Suspension of disbelief does have to be liberally purchased here, though. Even when Clua addresses it head on, it takes a bit of allowance for audience members to buy that such emotional stakes could unfold in a span of 90 minutes between two strangers.
Similarly, Laine Rogers’ direction highlights the theatricality of the piece, making complete immersion a bit difficult. The fact that one is watching a play is always evident. Still, she guides the performers skillfully when it comes to the inner truths of Clua’s work.
Casting-wise, Jim Nally is an ideal choice to portray Ray. He aces the specifics of the character, passionately bringing texture and depth to him. As Emily, Michelle McKenzie-Voigt matches him with her intensity. Nicely, both also find moments of humor in the often dramatic proceedings.
Specific details like that, ultimately, make this evening incredibly worthwhile. The gay experience is vast. Clua’s understanding of family and heartbreak adds another important exploration to our substantial theatrical arsenal.
The Swallow runs through September 27th at Open Space Arts, 1411 W. Wilson. More information is available at www.openspacearts.org.