★★★★★
As we go about our day, hundreds of people will pass us by, each with their own story. Most of the time, we will never learn it. But every so often, something happens that intertwines our story with theirs. Bold & Blunt Creative’s production of Ordinary Days, written by Adam Gwon, is a poignant exploration of how these moments of connection can change the course of our lives.
The show follows the lives of four New Yorkers, Warren, Deb, Claire and Jason, on yet another ordinary day. As we follow them throughout this day, they reflect on the past they are coming from, the future they are working towards and the people that they share this journey with.
Co-Directors Aidan O’Donnell and Jacob Macri have crafted a stunning production. The comedy and emotional depth throughout the story are beautifully balanced, and every moment has been thoughtfully planned and executed.
The intimacy of the space and the way the performers engage with the audience ensure that every choice and connection is felt deeply.
Joseph O’Reilly, as Musical Director, masterfully leads that cast through what is an incredible score. As a sung-through musical, every song carries the weight of the narrative, the character development and the emotional arcs of the story. This significance is beautifully captured throughout every moment of the show by the cast and O’Reilly on piano.
Flight Path Theatre is the perfect setting for this story, and the set design by O’Donnell uses the space immaculately. The collages on the wall become part of the storytelling, changing with our characters, and the minimalist set truly spotlights their journey.
Chuanie Luu’s lighting design perfectly accentuates this, changing seamlessly with the tone and perspective of each scene.
Ethan Bourke and Chantal Elyse play the roles of Warren and Deb, who form an unlikely friendship despite their very different approaches to life.
Bourke is absolutely phenomenal as Warren, embodying all the awkward charm of the character in his expression and physicality. He quickly becomes a focal point of the story, with his love of stories and connection becoming a catalyst for change in the lives of all the other players.
Elyse perfectly captures the ambition of Deb’s character, and it is an absolute delight to witness her transformation throughout the story. The difference in her vocal and physical performance from the start to the end is the perfect embodiment of how she has been influenced by the unexpected connection with Warren.
Jordan Berry and Lachlan Ceravolo perform as Claire and Jason, a couple embarking on the next stages of their relationship.
It is made so clear throughout Ceravolo’s performance how much love and respect Jason holds for Claire. His performance is wonderful, showcasing an incredible commitment to his character, the journey he is on and his desire to share this with Claire
Berry delivers a stunning performance as Claire. In every scene, you see not only her emotional reaction to the present, but the weight of her past and her struggle to embrace change. Her performance of I’ll Be Here is unbelievably beautiful. There wasn’t a single dry eye in the house by the end of the piece on opening night.
Ordinary Days from Bold & Blunt Creative is a wonderful celebration and recognition of the subtle but enduring power of human connection. With a sold-out opening night AND second night, you only have a couple more chances to see this incredible show. Make sure you don’t miss it!
Ordinary Days is presented by Bold & Blunt Creative and runs to 9 May at Flight Path Theatre. 9b/142 Addison Rd, Marrickville NSW 2204.
Tickets: https://www.flightpaththeatre.org/whats-on/ordinary-days
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/boldbluntcreative/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/flightpaththeatre/
Photo credits: Andrea Magpulong
