In the heart of the theatre world, a poignant and humorous exploration of the human condition is taking centre stage. “Spanish Steps,” a play described as “Fresh, funny and tragically Human,” digs deep into the complexities of fatherhood and the roles individuals often find themselves trapped in to meet societal expectations.
What makes this production all the more intriguing is that its playwright is also its leading actor. Gavin Werner, who not only crafted the script, but steps into the character of Barry, offers a unique and personal perspective on the themes explored in the play.
Werner’s journey with “Spanish Steps” began in 2009, a pivotal moment in his life when he was grappling with the loss of his own father. It was during this period of introspection and self-discovery that he started asking the profound question: why do good people sometimes exhibit toxic behaviour? This question became the cornerstone of the play, driving its narrative and character development.
At its core, “Spanish Steps” delves into the conundrums of fatherhood, presenting the story from both a father’s and a daughter’s perspective. Set in the confines of a basement, the play brings together two unlikely colleagues, Barry (played by Werner) and Maureen (portrayed by Dianne Simpson), who are desperately seeking a way out. Barry, a middle-aged man, finds himself in a life that feels unfulfilling – 25 years of a lifeless marriage and a quarter-century of underachievement in his job at an insurance company. He’s also estranged from his 25-year-old daughter on the eve of her wedding.
Maureen, the company’s HR director, is an earnest corporate player, but struggles with her own issues around ageing, loneliness, and mistrust of men. Trapped together in the basement, their interactions become a poignant dance of self-discovery, pushing each other’s buttons and becoming mirrors for each other’s blind spots.
Director Caroline Midgely sensitively brings these characters to life, and the audience is left wondering if Barry and Maureen will push each other over the edge or help each other become unstuck.
“Spanish Steps” will be gracing the stage at the Masambe Theatre at the Baxter from 10 – 22 October 2023, inviting audiences to join them on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth.
