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A Single Numberless Death
Verdict: Abstract representation of junta abductions
During the late 1970s and 80s, thousands of people disappeared during the reign of the Milicos, the secret police of the Argentine military junta. A Single Numberless Death, based on the book of the same name by Nora Strejilevich, recounts the abduction, torture and escape of a central character.
The stage is bare apart from twelve black-and-white photographs of some of the disappeared. The play is split into nine scenes introduced by a narrator. Action takes place on a bare stage. Props are a few tables and chairs which are converted into prison cells, a car and a van. It is a harrowing journey of victimisation by a ruthless regime which is paranoid about the young, seeing subversives in every corner of life. The central character Naomi and her brother Gerardo (no member of the cast has a set character – they all take on the parts at different times) are taken from all that they know – family, friends, school, security, safety and love.
During her internment, Naomi distances herself from what is happening to her - it is the only way she can survive. She wonders what has happened to her brother - whether he is still alive. The abstract scenes of brutality are dealt with sympathetically, which isn't sensationalised. The cast are exceptionally talented and carry the play off with dignity. It's not easy watching, and some may distance themselves from the story. A message of the play may be that what is important is for the disappeared not to be forgotten.
Cast Credits: (alpha order): Damien Casey-Boyce. Juliet Cooke. Julie Cox. Tom Dickson. Julian Findlay. Heather Laughland. Jenny Levack. Annie MacLeod. Rebecca Morgan. George Ramsay. Sebastian Scholl. Luke Watson.
Company Credits: Writer (of book A Single Numberless Death) - Nora Strejilevich. Adapted by - Bob Mayberry. Director - Bob Robinson. Lighting - Tony Dent. Music - Flora Barton. Technical Operator - uncredited. Producer - uncredited. Company - Demarco Rocket Productions & Glenalmond College. www.norastrejilevich.com/
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(c) Lea Harris 2007
Review Tuesday 21 August 07 / Rocket @ Demarco Roxy Art House
Fringe Report (c) Fringe Report 2002-2008