The Girl’s Guide to Saving the World was written in 2014 by English playwright Elinor Cook. Though the concept of a blog is a long-gone medium, the refreshing direction by Roisin Wallace-Nash keeps this production, presented by With Pleasure Productions as part of the Old Fitz late night programming, feeling contemporary.
The story follows childhood friends Jane and Bella. Feeling upset with the way women are treated, the two decide to start a blog to discuss these big issues. However, their blog quickly gains traction, forcing the two to confront their history and future as women.
The chemistry between Bridget Bourke as Jane and Mia Fitzgerald as Bella is delightful. In particular, their physical closeness really makes you root for the duo. That warmth between them in the opening scene is moving; they genuinely read as childhood friends.
Jane is a very compelling character, and this is due to Bourke’s clear characterisation through her acting. She has excellent control of tone, which shines in scenes with the character’s boyfriend, Toby, played by Alex Kirwan. It’s this tone that makes the dialogue feel incredibly authentic.
This is also elevated through the costumes of Jane and Bella. They appear fashionable and trendy, which is very fitting for two young women who work in the media.
The play is at its strongest in the confrontation between Jane and Toby. The scene is turbulent and raw. Kirwan, as Toby, begins as this unassuming, goofy man. Yet as the story continues, a hidden, insidious nature gleams through. He captures this darkness that even ‘good’ men can harbour perfectly. This storyline is increasingly relevant today with the growth of the performative male archetype.
Since this show relies on the characters’ relatability, setting this rendition in Australia was a clever decision. The Aussie embellishments make the story feel familiar. It’s honestly hard to imagine the play in any other context.
Despite the darker elements, the play is mostly a light watch. There is plenty of comedy spliced throughout. This can be seen in the large use of swearing by most characters. The invented profanities add to the homey atmosphere.
Riley Warner’s work as set designer is excellent. The staging is simple yet chic. This allows the set to act as a cafe, living room and doctor’s office without the audience even batting an eye.
Additionally, the music by composer Angelo Torres tugs at the heartstrings. Especially during the scene where Bella reads from the blog while Jane and Toby are across the stage. It’s soft and haunting, which really supports those serious scenes.
The show ends on a hopeful note and leaves one with a lot to think about. It’s satisfying to watch a play where the female characters’ happy ending is to be single.
Though The Girls Guide to Saving the World isn’t perfect, it’s a unique show with a lot of charm. Its ability to capture such specific and complex characters must be commended.
The Girl’s Guide To Saving The World is presented by With Pleasure Productions and runs to 6 February at the Old Fitz Theatre. 129 Dowling Street Woolloomooloo NSW 2011.
Tickets: https://tickets.iwannaticket.com.au/seller/old-fitz-ad9r
Website: https://www.oldfitztheatre.com.au/the-girls-guide-to-saving-the-world
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/oldfitztheatre/ and https://www.instagram.com/withpleasureproductions/
Photo credits: Robert Miniter
