Review: The Questions at the Space Theatre

The Questions delivers a fresh take on romantic comedies by transforming a disastrous Tinder date into a compelling musical narrative. In this quirky production, we meet two individuals who seem to be polar opposites: she’s perpetually late and revels in vibrant colours, while he’s obsessively punctual and views the world in muted beige tones. With her background in gender studies and his admiration for Jordan Peterson, their initial clash is as inevitable as it is explosive. Just as she’s about to make her escape, an unexpected citywide lockdown forces her to stay in his meticulously ordered high-rise apartment, setting the stage for an extended and turbulent first date.

Chaya Ocampo portrays the Visitor, who finds herself trapped with Charles Wu’s Resident, devoid of internet, phones, or streaming options. The only witnesses to their escalating clash are a rock band (the exceptional Sam Lau, James Bannah Jr., and Jackson Mack, masterfully directed by Kym Purling) ensconced in the neighbouring apartment, adding a layer of musical commentary to the unfolding drama.

In a bid to salvage the situation, the Visitor produces a Vogue magazine adorned with post-it notes, revealing a set of 36 intense questions designed to foster intimacy between strangers. As the days stretch on and their laundry supply dwindles, the unlikely pair works through these questions, gradually exposing their true selves and revealing hidden layers beneath their initial facades.

Drawing inspiration from the recent COVID-19 lockdowns, The Questions combines humour and heart to explore the theme of unexpected intimacy. The musical cleverly intertwines sharp dialogue and memorable songs to create a narrative that is both engaging and emotionally resonant. Each question serves as a tool for deeper understanding, allowing the characters to peel away their defenses and connect on a more profound level.

The chemistry between Ocampo and Wu is thrilling, with their performances capturing the essence of their characters’ evolving relationship. While in the beginning, their enactment felt more caricature than authentic, their interactions, whether through dialogue or song, became more engaging and genuine. The rock band adds an additional layer of humour and insight, reflecting on the evolving dynamics of the couple next door with wit and musical flair.

Jeremy Allen’s set design effectively encapsulates the confined space of the high-rise apartment, enhancing the sense of social claustrophobia. Meanwhile, Gavin Norris’s inventive lighting design adds visual interest and the illusion of change, enriching the overall atmosphere of the production.

While the feeling is New York, it is set in an unspecified location, the show creates a universal backdrop that emphasizes the central theme of connection amidst division. This approach ensures that the focus remains on the transformative power of understanding and intimacy, making the story relevant to audiences regardless of their backgrounds.

Under the direction of Mitchell Butel, The Questions emerges as a delightfully inventive musical that offers a unique blend of comedy, romance, and emotional depth. Even for those who might not usually gravitate toward rom-coms or musicals, the clever script, strong performances, and insightful message about human relations are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Badham book and lyrics combined with Wise’s music and lyrics transcends the immediate challenges of the pandemic and taps into a timeless theme: the fundamental human need for connection and understanding. The result is a musical that resonates, providing a heartening reminder of the possibilities for intimacy and bonding in an often-divided world.

4 stars

Lia Loves.