Address Unknown by Katherine Kressman Taylor

Known for their commitment to quality, contemporary theatre, Tamarama Rock Surfers once again don’t disappoint with their latest offering Address Unknown, currently playing at Bondi Pavillion Theatre.

First published as a short story in 1938 and set in 1932, Address Unknown by Katherine Kressman Taylor spans San Francisco to Germany and chronicles the relationship between two German business partners via their letters to each other. German born Martin Schulse (Patrick Dickson) communicates details of his return to Europe and his reconnection with his homeland to Max Eisenstein (John O’Hare), a German Jew still residing in the USA. As details of Martin’s increasing sympathy for the National Socialists becomes evident via his written word, cracks begin to form in the once strong relationship between the two men.

Through details of Martin’s sympathies for Germany’s new order and Max’s inability to comprehend the regime, the once shared ideologies of the two friends become increasingly different and the warmth between them changes to thinly concealed distrust and ultimately hate at dramatic speed. The underlying racist sentiment and the frightening human ability to inflict unspeakable harm on each other - even those we once called friends - are themes that are disturbingly relevant today.
Both actors give convincing performances in this tightly directed two-hander and well-practiced accents further belief of the setting rather than becoming a focal point. John O’Hare’s conviction in his confusion and despair provides a riveting performance that leads to a feeling of shared frustration, confusion and ultimately a feeling of betrayal.

The minimal and unobtrusive lighting is complemented by music of a similar feel and ensures that the focus remains on the dramaturgy. Barry French’s set design communicates the subtle differences between the two sides of the story, indicating both shared elements but ultimately different lives of the characters.

Address Unknown raises uncomfortable questions about our ability to exact revenge and inflict harm on those we once adored. The parallels between Hilter’s ability to commit atrocities is reflected in both characters’ ability to do similar emotional harm to each other, albeit on a smaller scale. Although almost 75 years old, Address Unknown brings home frightening human truths that are just as relevant today as the period that plays out on stage.

DIRECTOR – MOIRA BLUMENTHAL

STARRING -PATRICK DICKSON & JOHN O’HARE

Venue: The Bondi Pavilion Theatre


Dates: 2nd March – 24th March


Days & Times: Tues – Sat 8pm, Sun 5pm


Tickets: Adult $33, Concession $25, Cheap Tuesday $21

Bookings: www.rocksurfers.org or 1300 241 167

Reviewed by Jane Stabler