THEATRE: LADYBIRD

Better known in his homeland for his habits with vodka than for his way with words, new wave Russian playwright Vassily Sigarev is nonetheless acknowledged internationally for the power of his work. Sigarev is concerned with the voices of those on the margins of society, and his latest work Ladybird is no exception.

Dima lives in an apartment block overlooking a graveyard. His father is an alcoholic and his mother is dead. Tomorrow he joins the army and leaves forever, but not before one last celebration. Ladybird is a surprisingly hilarious, while filled with futile dreams and frustrated rage.
This is not the first time that Sigarev’s work has been performed at Belvoir, and like this production’s predecessor Black Milk, the work is treated with great sensitivity. Lee Lewis directs with a deft touch, bringing subtle shades to scenes that could easily descend into the absurd and unrelatable. The ensemble cast initially seem to be underperforming, but it soon becomes apparent that they are reserving their energies in order to bring the work to its climax. The chaotic set design works brilliantly in the space, and literally soils the actors as the play progresses. Ladybird is a passionate and empathetic work.

Until 12 April. Belvoir St Theatre, 25 Belvoir Street, Surry Hills. $23-$29, 9699 3444 or www.belvoir.com.au