Dark comedy lives! This sensational show will have you giggling, bursting out inappropriately but also remaining appropriately subdued. Teeth & Tonic speaks to the very real nature of our society’s patriarchy, men, and their manipulation of their supposed loved ones. This play doesn’t shy away from unveiling the very real effects that emotional abuse has amongst lovers…it’s lucky for our main character’s support network.
Directed by Maya Britbart Ellazam, Teeth & Tonic features a loveable and wholesome ensemble who are making light of the dark in their lives. They hilariously and lovingly encourage each other’s growth at every opportunity, bumbling through life together. There’s even a juicy lesson: always remember where you smuggled the acid!
We learn of Frankie and Bec, besties who are opposites that do attract. One is sweet and unapologetically fierce. Frankie’s is a story of un-requited love among the frivolity of being in your mid-twenties. Then we slowly learn that bestie Bec is truly in one of the most toxic relationships imaginable. Frankie has been telling her all along that Matt, self-obsessed, self-confessed lady killer, is a douche. But Bec is sweet and refuses to see it, makes excuses for him — I think you know where there is going…
Teeth & Tonic is aware of what can happen in relationships and allows us be the experts. It expertly proceeds to tell of the dangers that some people pose, and not just to our fragile hearts.
I couldn’t control the laughing or the sudden shame that make the twists and turns of this amusing story. You are regularly reminded of the seriousness of the subtext to this story and of Bec’s literal fight for survival. An informed and classic combination of comedy and shock that will make you glad you went to the theatre. See this show, it’s popular because it’s real (and a little twisted too). Just the way we like it!
Teeth & Tonic is currently showing at La Mama Courthouse, 349 Drummond St, Carlton.
For further information and bookings, please click here.
