Barons Court Theatre – until 20th May 2023
Reviewed by Ben Jolly
4****
At Birth, now playing at Barons Court Theatre is a succinct two-hander written, designed and performed by Ty Autry and Thalia Gonzalez Kane as they portray two best friends who are forced to go on a journey when a drunken night of passion changes the trajectory of their lives and relationship forever.
With humour, honesty and playfulness, this piece is an in-depth character study on how it is to be young, queer and living in the Southern states of the US. The play does exactly what it sets out to do, with just enough drama to keep the audience engaged for the duration; it is clear on its agenda with what the writers are trying to say regarding abortion laws in the US (and globally); they execute this wonderfully without preaching to the choir, we are merely reminded on a level of empathy the ongoing struggles and debates over a woman’s right to choose through the power of storytelling.
The chemistry between Autry and Gonzalez Kane is undeniable, the play opens with the two exchanging stories and tales from their childhoods over a bottle (or two) of wine. The physical and emotional ease they have with each other translates to the audience, and when the drama starts to take centre stage and the awkward arguments and raw emotions pour it has the same effect on us. The two artists are clearly passionate for the piece, exuberating confidence and clarity in their intentions. This play is helmed tastefully and tightly paced with direction by Melissa Foulger.
With so little to be sure of, this play reminds us that through the most turbulent and darkest of times, there is always room for humour, joy and friendship – and if we can allow these into our lives then hope remains unconquerable.