REVIEW: CRANE GIRL
Age Suitability: Parental Guidance (ages 13+)
Genre: Theatre—Comedy, Theatre—Drama, Dance
Run Time: 60 mins
Venue: Theatre Aquarius Studio
The term "crane girl" refers to Marisa Lazo (referred to as “Jane” in this production), a woman who gained notoriety after climbing a 100 metre construction crane in downtown Toronto in November 2017 requiring a lengthy rescue by emergency services. Inspired by these true events, Falling Iguana Theatre, winner of this year's Best New Play award, brings a captivating piece of theatre that you simply cannot take your eyes off of.
The scaffolding set piece is like a construction site jungle gym in which all three skilled actors maneuver around, build upon and create various scenes from making this an exceptionally physical and demanding show. With the set and actors in near constant motion, progressing the narrative in a poetic, rhythmic way, we slowly discover what led to the event from different people’s perspectives as bystanders, emergency crew and even Jane’s family members and spouse.
All three actors are physically pushing their limits while simultaneously supporting one another emotionally through the numerous scenes in flashbacks and forwards. Alexa Higgins is a breath-taking triumph as Jane (as well as her incredible work as playwright, director and producer). Ian Ottis Goff is excellent as Jon (the emergency rescuer), Evan (Jane’s husband) and other bystanders. He demonstrates the dumbfoundedness in Jane’s actions perfectly and is believable as he scales the set with trepidation. Last, but certainly not least, Katherine Cappellacci is brilliant with her humorous and easily recognizable characters of the bystander who calls in the harrowing event and Jane’s supportive sister in law Laura. Bravo.
Crane Girl explores the effects of traumatic everyday events that we witness and experience and leaves audiences wanting to read more about the true story that inspired it. It is easy to see why this production is a winner. Highly recommended. A must-see.
