GRIND

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• Original Instagram Post: Post Link (24th March 2016)

Grind, 24th March 2016

I think when people think about theatre, they imagine a space with a stage. And rows and rows of seats. A very comfortable spectator position that draws you in. However, Toy Factory's Grind smashed this notion to bits with a very inventive design of the entire theatrical space. There is no distinction between on-stage and off-stage because the black box is stripped of its familiar seats. The spectators gather in the middle and move around the black box, literally kept on their toes, observing every single movement intently. 

The spotlights shine harshly on the spectators, casting a great discomfort and disconnect from the usual theatre experience. This arrangement reminded me of how darkness induces a voyeuristic gaze. Under the glaring light, the spectator becomes naked and present. 

They need to think. 

They have to think. 

The topic of the play is nothing new but the formalist elements changed the way people received the subject matter. The space forces people to think and be kept in a reflective mode. And invokes a reflection about the plight of LGBT folks. 

Thank you to the fabulous people at Toy Factory! Another great work to add to our LGBT canons.