Beare gives a wonderfully committed portrayal of Apollo, capturing all the conflicting thoughts and emotions that are racing through his mind as he grapples with the power of returning to Country. The narrative is told as part confessional, part enacted scenes, and part burlesque, with each one doing well to support the other and enhance the story in ways the other two styles can't.
That said, the piece could gain from a bit more direction and cohesion. It has a scattered quality that sometimes works to its advantage, but occasionally leaves you wishing for a steadier hand to guide it. I would’ve loved to see more of its poetic sensibility, those instances where language, imagery and emotion come together to illuminate Apollo’s arc. The references to the black cockatoo were especially powerful and grounded the work beautifully in ancestry and Country.
The biggest challenge with this production is the staging. It's a long room and sitting in the back, there are many times when you are unable to hear Beare. They either need to be mic'd up or constantly project, there are times when their dialogue is almost whispered for effect, or speaking while music is playing, which has much of the audience struggling to hear. Similarly, there is some choreography where they are on the floor, and unless you're in the front few rows, you're unlikely to catch any of that.
Lighting and sound are used effectively though, particularly the times when Apollo is feeling hot, or referencing the sun. Initially, the lighting feels searing, but by the end, it appears to take on a warmer glow, matching the acceptance that he has found within himself. Nature sounds are also used well, bringing us back to environment and land, connecting Apollo and us to his Indigenous culture and heritage.
Poems of a Transsexual Nature is a bold, intimate work that shines brightest in its moments of reflection and connection to Country. While it could benefit from tighter direction and clearer staging, Beare’s engaging performance and use of sound and light make it a memorable journey, encouraging contemplation and weaving personal experience with ties to ancestry and place.
SHOW DETAILS
Venue: Trades Hall, Cnr Lygon & Victoria Sts, Carlton
Season: until 19 October | Fri - Sat 8:15pm, Sun 7:15pm
Duration: 60 minutes
Tickets: Full $28 | Concession $25
Bookings: Melbourne Fringe Festival
Image credit: Bambi-Jayne Photography
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