Reviewed by: See Do Eat Review
What does it mean to find yourself? How do you know you’re on the right path if you never take one? These are the kinds of questions asked in Jennifer Trijo’s brilliant new theatre piece titled NYMPH. A ‘nymph’ is an adolescent dragonfly, and in this remarkable female-led performance, it plays a part in telling this imaginative story about nature and the world around us.
Set in a fictional world, Jennifer plays the part of Nature. Watching over the world during an eclipse, she notices a Sleepwalker named Luna and a Daydreamer named Sol. Over sixty enthralling minutes, we watch their stories unfold. Luna is a rule follower, unable to leave her lands; she is set in her ways and strict in her beliefs. Sol is the opposite. Daydreamers are aloof, unplanned and go wherever their feet will take them. Luna and Sol meet, and after some initial trepidation, learn about each other’s ways. Blending song, music and stories, we witness these two break their own metaphorical chains and become the people they want to be, not what society dictates they be. Heart-warming, engrossing and with an ending you won’t see coming, Nymph delivers a theatrical wonderland to Fringe audiences.
Special applause should be given to this whole cast of performers. Their harmonies are flawless, and I was left with goosebumps several times throughout the show. Jennifer is like the conductor of this theatrical orchestra, talking, singing, and playing instruments as the story unfolds. Sophie and Joey carry the story and deliver songs that will stay with you long after Nymph is over. Max, Ellie and Gabriel are the foundations of this magnificent performance. Not only can they carry a tune, but I particularly loved the way they stayed in character even when the spotlight was not on them.
The best thing about the Adelaide Fringe is discovering new talents that you hadn’t seen before. Nymph combines a beautiful story with some truly amazing Australian singing and acting talents to produce one of the most breathtaking pieces of theatre at the Fringe.
***** Five Stars