Reviewed by: Glam Adelaide
Review by Will Oakeshott | 10 March 2023
The “fourth wall” is a term proclaimed by the renowned philosopher and critic Denis Diderot; he used this term to illustrate the "imaginary barrier" between the audience and stage which during performances is now more often broken by artists, usually by directly acknowledging the presence of the crowd members. Traditional theatre discourages such artistic ambition, however, the immersive factor has undeniably brought a new dimension to an array of productions.
 ‘Bones’ is an excellent exhibition of this nature. Presented in the intimate Ukiyo tent at Gluttony, a flawless venue for a stage play of this nature, it enhances the concept that this isn’t just an investigation for spectators, it is an immersion. Please be warned, this is rather HERoically harrowing also.
 How many avenues of addiction are present in our current existence? Realistically, this is almost an unknown. This is a topic that usually negotiates substance abuse and sex amongst other mind-altering or easing pathways. However, the categories have expanded to realms we have become ignorant toward recognising; what we thought we understood of these conditions are just the bare ‘Bones' of what a monster it has become.
 Technology - more specifically social media, nicotine, alcohol, body image, shopping and fashion, food, work and party drugs were all represented in theatrical interpretation mostly focussing on dance and movement. At times this body language was gymnastic, in other scenarios a delicate ballet routine was executed, a breakdance choreography would unfold if the persuasion called for it - there was even a sexual element and representation in one scene. It was a demonstration of unease and brilliantly expressed.
 A magnificent monologue from the Behavioural Scientist doctor character then took the audience to perhaps a familiar and exposed sensation; this wasn’t a guilt complex prompting by any means, simply a call to awareness.  From here each character returned with their addiction of choice from the initial stages of the production and their delivery was heightened and disturbingly remarkable. This concluded with all characters enjoying a “party night” scene, clearly on a multitude of narcotics which was all fun and games until they ran out and incorporated themselves into the audience. They didn’t just breakdown their walls, the prior mentioned fourth wall was wrecked and it was astonishing. â€¨ There is closure to the presentation and one that promotes a thoughtful and thankful summation to the collection of stories. It should be noted however, this is a raw depiction and could be triggering to individual’s who may have struggled in their lives. Do not think of this as a “tribute" in any way, this is a sensibility and alertness to how delicate the human form can be and many praises should be directed to Fiona Smith, Ina Young, the entire cast and crew. Also the soundtrack incorporated featuring: Kaleo, Christina Aguilera, Fergie, Enter Shikari, Lykke Li and other prominent musicians was breath-taking.
 As Issac Newton famously stated: “We build too many walls and not enough bridges”.