Words. I like ‘em.
And writer Stephen Vagg uses them gloriously.
Built on the conceit that the sidekick phenomena found in rom-coms is often repeated in real life, Vagg’s Sidekicks is a very funny, very engaging piece of theatre.
Director Louise Alston’s simple production wisely allows the language to do its magic. And actors Emily Rose Brennan and Dan Ilic are superb; their understated delivery is a real delight.
In the movies, the sidekicks often speak more intelligently and imaginatively than the heroines and heroes
Is this true in life?
Is language the opposite of action?
There’s certainly an enormous prejudice in our culture towards this belief. ‘Actions speak louder than words.’
But volume isn’t everything. Give me subtlety any time. Through it we’ll build a richer world.
The play suggests we should stop accepting the role of sidekicks. We should let go of our self doubts and live an authentic fully-engaged life.
I think it’s a great tragedy to believe that, somehow, we’re doing good when we relegate ourselves to second place. We fool ourselves we’re being humble, when we’re just being irresponsible.
The world will be made with us, or without us.
So, all you fast talking deep thinking sidekicks, step forward!
Veronica Kaye
Sidekicks
Old 505 Theatre til 18 November
Theatre Red 
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