Mother/SON [VIC]

A Jewish mother’s journey from an ignorant, blinkered, uneducated (aka homophobic) but ultimately caring mother to a woman of tolerance and acceptance is told with consummate skill by one man, Jeffrey Solomon, a new York writer/actor. This subtle, understated gem of a piece wraps around you, hugs you gently and doesn’t let go. Alternating between himself and his mother, while balancing that fine line between homage and parody, takes an actor of exceptional nuance and skill. The play is mainly told through a series of phone conversations, many of them only one-sided to the audience. That may sound rote but the clever stylings of these conversations coupled with scenes in bars, a doctor’s office etc., makes for riveting viewing. No change or additions to costuming was required here as Solomon is so immersed into his mother’s character it renders tricks and props irrelevant. At no time did this audience member find a false note in either character or in the transformations between them.

The program notes suggest that Solomon has been touring with this piece for quite a few years. It is to his credit that the performance feels so fresh, polished and refined though it is. The writing, whilst not uproariously funny, has a warmth and depth that allows the audience to be drawn in and fall for both characters and their story in an easy, non-confronting way. That the large audience was mostly made up of middle-aged women, presumably many of them mothers of gay children, is a testament to the story that Mr Solomon conveys. It is in the conveying of this message that the performer gives me the hook I need to connect with him as an audience member. There is so much heart in this show but never once does it stoop into sentiment. The ending was so deeply moving to me, that even though I sensed what was coming, I surprised myself with the emotional reaction I had to it. Bravo Jeffrey. I hope that you decide to return with more of your theatrical magic soon. There are only a couple of performances left so please do not delay in trying to secure a seat. You’ll thank me for the tip.

Click here for Chris' review of The Year of Magical Wanking.