2.36 | Circle and Star Live

2.36, which is co-written and performed by Elijah Lifton and Anoushka Cowan, is a biting satirical play about the lifestyle of the rich, specifically the younger generation. The two siblings, Josh and Keira (Kiki) find themselves at odds as they discuss, debate and disagree about their family business, and its resulting consequences. At only twenty, Josh is desperate to step into the family business and lead an important meeting following the hospitalisation of their grandfather. Kiki, on the other hand, is deeply disapproving of the family's ways, leading to the two siblings to become rather prickly around one another. 

Co-directed by Jessie Milson and Guy Rapacioli (with dramaturgy by Ruby Isaacs), the show quickly finds a steady and satisfying pace, allowing for the nearly 60 minutes of dialogue to flow well. Audiences are never bored, despite a lot of repetitive dialogue, and that's a credit to both the direction and the performances. The show moves naturally, with an authentic sense of tension as the two characters try not to let their already fleeting relationship fracture any further. The pauses and hesitant confessions make the characters endearing as they tackle their own flaws.

The show fits well in the intimate space as they include a level of movement that arises naturally. The montage sequences as the two siblings get progressively more drunk and looser with their toughened stances is done well through the flashing lights and sound design by Belle Bao. The show starts with the two siblings drunk, dancing and really just enjoying one another's company, and the cyclic nature of the show to return to this point with an added urgency is done really well.

Having previously seen a shorter presentation of 2.36, it's wonderful to see how the show has grown and refined itself, leaning into the elements of the show that were done right last time. This piece feels more polished, though perhaps a little too practiced in places, losing a slight rougher quality that prioritised the characters and their lives over the main conversation. This is perhaps a compliment, as the show has achieved a lovely balance between character and plot, yet with such compelling characters, it's a slight shame to see much of their external lives condensed into offhand comments or quick questions.

Lifton and Cowan's passion and talent is what makes 2.36 such a compelling show. It's never easy to get an audience to pay attention to a show that is essentially one long conversation, and yet these two manage it with ease. The writing is slick, stinging with brutal honesty and yet also entertaining, with several witty lines that have the audience laughing out loud. Lifton and Cowan don't hesitate to really explore their topic, often playing devil's advocate and reminding audiences that the world we live in isn't as straightforward as black and white. Both siblings aren't in the clear, and yet the writing manages to both acknowledge and absolve them of this, by constantly painting the larger picture about how they are clogs in a system. 

Cowan comes in as a force to reckon with, creating a character who strives to call out and correct the mistakes made by her ambitious family. Kiki's caring nature shines as she tries to do good in the world by attending protests, funding and supporting the arts, and preaching endlessly, along with her confidence to confront wrongdoing. Equally her hypocrisy, both in her lifestyle and in the company that she keeps, exposes her other side that is fuelled with a burning need to appear carefree, independent and in control. Cowan's performance is stunning, talented at both the dreamy adrenaline seeking teenager and the wise and calculated adult. However, it's the moments of vulnerability when she allows herself to crave affection from her family, especially Josh, that Cowan excels the most at.

Lifton has always had an arresting stage presence and he manages to outdo himself in this production. Josh is a particularly complicated character, the golden boy and first child who has been groomed to take over the company, and yet somehow much more of a volatile child that no one seems to trust. Lifton is tasked with a tricky personality, often spouting more conservative ideals with a convincing air, and yet still charming and comedic. Lifton is impressive as he allows his eager and confident facade fall, revealing the scared child who seeks validation. Lifton's natural penchant for comedy comes through brightly as he manages to have audiences laughing with a mere look, before launching into a line that takes the entire crowd by delighted surprise.

2.36 is a sharp comedy drama that is drenched in satire and wit, making for a thought provoking and entertaining evening at the theatre. With strong writing and even stronger performances, this debut show from the Marigold Productions is a sign of great things to come. 

★★★★☆ (4*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review