When life takes a sharp turn, what do we do? How do we move on and in which direction? What are the signposts?
Alice and the World We Live In is a poignant trip through memories and mourning. It is a loving tale of how to cherish the life that happened and to face the pain of moving on. It is surprising, insightful, and compassionate.
Alice (Jane Wheeler) is a widow who takes a hiking trip in the mountains of Italy. It’s a holiday that was intended as an anniversary voyage with her husband, Ever (Daniel Brochu). But after he is killed in a horrific tragedy, she cannot cancel the tickets and goes regardless. As she ascends a mountainside, she is suddenly paralyzed by fear. She cannot move forward or back. At this moment, the ghost or memory of Ever appears to console her. They have a heated debate about what was and what could have been on that fateful day. Alice tries to change her memories, even the best ones, because they are so agonizing. Ever reminds her that there is more to her life than the pain of loss.
The trail and its pointed half-way mark is the obvious metaphor for the journey that Alice undertakes. The question is why Alice takes this trip since it involves her phobias: fear of heights and fear of being alone. Even attempts to manage the future do not prepare her for the unknown. This loss of control forces Alice to face her guilt for surviving and for continuing life without Ever.
The acting is superb. Ms. Wheeler performs the stages of grief with power and truth. Alice can be frustrating at times, but Ms. Wheeler never makes her annoying. It is a delicate line that is expertly played. Mr. Brochu matches Ms. Wheeler beat for beat. They have very good chemistry that supports the love story of the characters. Bravo!
The sets are stark, angular, and abstract. The sharp lines and edges dramatize Alice’s environment. The effect is foreboding and exciting.
Our lives are the result of choices made either consciously or by circumstances. The best control we have is in our response to these choices. It’s that response that sends us on the path we tread.
Photo Credit: Andrée Lanthier
Alice and the World We Live In: Presented by Centaur Theatre Company. Directed by Eda Holmes. Written by Alexandria Haber. Show continues to November 3, 2019, at the Centaur Theatre, 453 St-François-Xavier, Old Montreal. For tickets call the box office at 514-288-3161 or go to www.centaurtheatre.com
