PREVIEW: WIFE by Samuel Adamson @ New Theatre

In a courageous exploration of love, identity, and societal expectations, New Theatre presents Wife by Aussie expat Samuel Adamson, a thought-provoking play that spans nine decades and challenges our understanding of marriage and queerness. Set to open soon, this production promises to be a captivating journey through time, using Henrik Ibsen's A Doll's House as its narrative anchor.

Directed by Darrin Redgate, Wife follows the story of Daisy, a woman at a moral crossroads whose choices ripple through the lives of four couples over 90 years. The play's structure cleverly intertwines characters across generations, each grappling with the concept of being a 'wife' and measuring themselves against Ibsen's rebellious Nora.

Adamson's script, praised for its wit and depth, jumps between the 1950s, 1980s, present day, and a speculative future. This time-hopping narrative allows for a nuanced examination of how attitudes towards marriage, sexuality, and gender have evolved – and in some ways, remained stagnant – over the decades.

The play's meta-theatrical elements are evident from the start, with scenes set backstage after performances of A Doll's House. This device not only pays homage to Ibsen's groundbreaking work but also serves as a lens through which to view changing societal norms and personal struggles.

Wife doesn't shy away from complex themes. It delves into the challenges faced by both straight and gay couples, exploring how the quest for personal freedom often clashes with the desire for equality within relationships. The play raises poignant questions about whether gay marriage simply replicates heterosexual patterns and if we're moving towards a more homogenised world.

New Theatre's production boasts a talented ensemble cast including Alison Brooker, Henry Lopez Lopez, Will Manton, Imogen Trevillion, Julia Vosnakis, and Pete Walters. These actors will likely take on the multiple roles across the different time periods, a challenging task that promises to showcase their versatility.

The creative team behind Wife is equally impressive. David Marshall-Martin's set design, Jay Murrin's lighting, and Matthew Forbes' sound design will work in concert to bring the various eras to life on stage. Costume designers Aibhlinn Stokes and Burley Stokes face the exciting challenge of outfitting characters across nearly a century of changing fashions.

While the play tackles weighty themes, Adamson's writing is far from dry. Wife has been described as "challenging and thought-provoking, brimming with pathos, politics and laugh-out-loud moments" by Diva Magazine. The script's ability to balance humour with its more serious undertones should make for an engaging theatrical experience.

Wife invites us to reflect on how far we've come in our understanding of love, marriage, and identity – and how far we still have to go. It's a journey that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.

In a world where the definitions of family and partnership are constantly evolving, Wife offers a timely exploration of these themes. By connecting the past to the present and even the future, the play encourages us to consider how the echoes of Nora's slammed door continue to reverberate in our own lives and relationships.

Preview: Tue 8 Oct 7:30pm
Opening Night: Wed 9 Oct 7:30pm
Thu – Sat: 7:30pm, Sun 2pm
Final performance: Sat 2 Nov 2pm

Tickets: https://aunewtheatre.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/117025

Full: $37
Concessions, Groups: (6+) $32
New Theatre Members: $25
Thrifty Thursdays: $25
Preview: $20

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