Point Break Theatre Co: 12 Angry Jurors - Review by Felicity Amos

A modern take on a well loved classic, Point Break Theatre Co’s production of 12 Angry Jurors explores the complexities of human dynamics, personal biases and the powerful influence we can have on one another. Challenging the Jurors and the audience to be more introspective, what starts out as a seemingly straightforward open and shut case unravels into a revealing study of the human mind.

The set design by Michael Haratzis is minimalist and utilitarian, fitting for a deliberation room. The practical space could be from any decade but when the lights fade up on our ensemble of Jurors, Marisa Newnes’ costume design places us firmly in the 21st century, highlighting how the themes of this play are still as relevant today as they were when it was first performed over 60 years ago.

Director and Producer Paul Winchester has expertly staged this challenging production which centres around one long conference table in the same room for the duration of the play. It would be very easy to lose energy and dialogue stuck seated in a stagnant tableau around the table but Winchester has masterfully made use of the Jurors' frustrated and anxious energies to drive movement in the space as their judgements are confronted and they battle to have their opinions heard.

Winchester has put together an incredible ensemble, all of whom were completely immersed in their characters and artfully guided the audience's attention to key moments. Revelle Najar (Juror 2), Alex Wright (Juror 6), Bailey Parker (Juror 12) and Tia-Brittany Murphy (Guard) showed great presence and physical expression allowing us insight into their personal journeys despite having fewer lines than other characters. Branko Dijkstra as Juror 1, the jury’s foreman, gave a commendable performance demonstrating the power struggle to maintain order with louder, domineering characters in the room.

David Allsopp (Juror 4) and Aska Karem (Juror 11) perfectly portrayed calm and rational voices looking through the lens of impartiality, a contrast very much needed to balance out the many explosive personalities.

On the other side of the scale Georgie Bonanno (Juror 5) and Allira Jaques (Juror 10) gave wonderfully heated performances, both portraying their characters with great passion and realism in both the delivery of their lines and body language throughout.

Outspoken one moment and funny the next, Trudi Ross (Juror 7) and Aileen Beale (Juror 9) both gave excellent performances embracing the light and shade of their characters. They were so engrossed in their roles my eye was often drawn to them to see what was happening in their private worlds.

Which leaves us with Des Harris (Juror 3) and Brendan McBride (Juror 8), both of these men were exceptional. Thoroughly engaging and the embodiment of their characters, Harris and McBride collided powerfully against one another.

Harris is a remarkable performer with incredible dynamic delivery, he commands attention and even breaks our hearts when his tough, loud exterior is torn away revealing the vulnerability and sadness he was so desperate to hide.

McBride is the perfect Devil’s Advocate of this tale. His compassionate and considered manner is the perfect counterpart to Harris’ roaring lion. McBride has a great sense of calm and stillness, separating him from the uncomfortable fidgeting of the other jurors and giving him a silent power and air of truth.

This production is a masterclass of tension, focus and dynamics. A huge congratulations to Paul Winchester, cast and crew for creating a dynamic and riveting work of art.