We all need to get away, to recharge, and sometimes to reflect. But does it actually achieve anything? Are we actually growing or just engaging in personal indulgences?
Small Mouth Sounds is a funny, harsh, and poignant examination on the personal quest for meaning in life. It is original and surprisingly intimate. A great cast and creative staging make the show quick paced and intriguing.
The story takes place during a 5-day silent retreat with six individuals. Apart from a lesbian couple, one of whom is not impressed with the whole venture, the others are strangers. Some follow the rules diligently; some are not as respectful. Some are true seekers for truth; some just want to show off. It is a motley crew whose paths will cross with each other with interesting results.
Needless to say, at a silent retreat, there is not a lot of dialogue. Apart from the Teacher who speaks off stage, the cast uses awkward gestures to communicate with each other. At times, the silence is broken by stolen conversations. But at that point, the journeys of the characters have become so clear that words are almost meaningless. When the mindless talk is taken away, the silence is filled with unresolved expectations and questions about where they are in life. It creates tension that builds and explodes in surprising and human ways.
The show’s success is a testament to the wonderful work by the ensemble. In spite of the lack of dialogue, they make the individual personalities shine and connect to the audience. Bravo to everyone!
The staging is also excellent, with trap doors and off-stage sound effects that effortlessly create the environment. The stage where the show takes place also allows a more close-hand experience with the audience. This is important to catch the facial expressions, gestures, and physical languages.
The path to personal growth is a difficult and tricky journey. It must begin with honesty with yourself in what you seek. What you may find may be frightening or freeing.
Photo credit: Leslie Schachter
Small Mouth Sounds. Directed by Caitlin Murphy. Written by Bess Wohl. Show continues until March 1, at Segal Centre, 5170 Chemin de la Côte-Ste-Catherine, Montreal. Call the box office 514-739-7944 or go to www.segalcentre.org
