Coherence, presented by REDFOX3Theatre Company at The 1812 Theatre, is a mind-bending psychological thriller that keeps audiences on edge from start to finish. Directed with precision and performed with conviction, the production masterfully captures the unsettling atmosphere of the film on which it is based, yet succeeds in translating its enigmatic narrative to the intimacy of live theatre.
The story takes place during a dinner party, where eight friends gather on the night a comet passes close to Earth. What begins as a lighthearted reunion quickly unravels into a night of confusion and terror as strange, unexplainable events begin to occur. Without spoiling the twists, Coherence delves deep into themes of parallel universes, fractured realities, and personal identity, questioning how well we truly know ourselves or the people around us.
The cast is superb in navigating the play’s complex structure, which demands they shift between normalcy and chaos at a moment’s notice. The dialogue feels natural, and the chemistry between the actors makes the audience believe in the friendships and tensions that have long existed between the characters. Their ability to convey fear and uncertainty is crucial to maintaining the play’s mounting suspense. As the night progresses, the paranoia intensifies, and the actors portray this disintegration of trust with chilling authenticity.
Visually, the production is understated yet effective. The design of the set—a typical middle-class home—is deceptively simple, with a dining table, chairs, and minimal props. However, the true magic of the design lies in its ability to shift from ordinary to ominous with clever use of lighting and sound. The dimming of the lights and sudden power outages are particularly effective in heightening the eerie, claustrophobic feel, while the eerie music and sharp sound effects contribute to the sense of unease. It’s a testament to the technical team that these seemingly simple elements are used to such potent effect.
One of the strengths of the play is the way it manipulates time and space. As the characters venture outside the house, they return to a reality that feels slightly… off. This disorientation is conveyed excellently through subtle shifts in the actors’ performances and small, yet significant changes to the set. The result is a sensation that time is fluid and reality is breaking down—elements that are essential to the story’s tension. The production thrives on these small details, creating an atmosphere that feels both familiar and threatening.
That said, the complexity of the narrative may leave some viewers feeling disoriented or confused. The concept of parallel universes and fractured realities is inherently difficult to portray in a live setting, and while the production handles it admirably, there are moments when the intricacies of the plot could overwhelm the uninitiated. However, for those willing to embrace the confusion, the payoff is a thrilling ride through an unpredictable narrative.
Overall, Coherence is a bold and ambitious choice for REDFOX3Theatre Company. It challenges its audience to think deeply and to question what they see. With strong performances, sharp direction, and effective technical design, it successfully brings this high-concept thriller to life on stage. Fans of psychological thrillers and mind-bending stories will not be disappointed.
Date: 5th-14th September 2024
