Review ‘Annie Baker’s INFINITE LIFE’
When the Coal Mine Theatre invited me to see the opening of their new production, Infinite Life by Annie Baker, I jumped at the opportunity because I adore the Coal Mine Theatre. I am consistently impressed with their use of set/space, the high caliber of talent from the actors, and the diverse choices of presented pieces. Infinite Life was an interesting choice being a slow-burning ensemble play with some meaningful moments.
“Five women in (a) Northern California fasting/health resort sit outside on chaise lounges and philosophize. A surprisingly funny inquiry into the complexity of suffering, and what it means to desire in a body that’s failing you.” Those who love to analyze theatre will enjoy this piece, but for me, there were times when the play felt so slow. There are moments of lengthened silence, which in some ways is interesting because it gives the audience time to think and interpret things that are being talked about, but at other times feel stretched out for no reason. There are also many moments of randomness and absurdness, which come at the audience sometimes without warning and lead to hilarious lines or meaningful moments, but at other times it feels like the playwright is trying to say way too much. At one point, one of the actors walks on stage and sadly announces there was another school shooting, but then they immediately move on to another point. I fully understand and appreciate that the playwright was trying to make a point but felt forced.
The topics presented however had great potential to be incredibly meaningful: pain, expectations, the passing of time, new-aged thinking, and that feeling of being free. The cast does an incredible job of presenting these large ideas with humour and sensitivity. Christine Horne (Sofie) did an excellent job communicating a roller coaster of emotions all while rarely leaving the stage, and was joined by an equally strong cast of individuals seeking relief from their illnesses and diseases. Nancy Palk (Eileen), Brenda Bazinet (Elaine), Jean Yoon (Ginnie), Kara Harper (Yvette), and Ari Cohen (Nelson) all embodied the complexities of the characters so much, all while demonstrating varying levels of pain (physically and emotionally). The set design was also beautiful (as it tends to be at Coal Mine). Walking into the theatre for Infinite Life immediately transported us to what looked like a high-end spa, but with a few cracks showing with a broken chair, a screen, and a mop left in the corner of the stage. A shout-out to Joyce Padua (Set and Costume Designer) and Steve Lucas (Lighting Designer) for their excellent work bringing this California health retreat come alive.
I feel like this play is very much worth seeing, especially if you have been affected by chronic illness, but for the average theatre-goer, this production maybe just a little too slow. There isn’t a climax (I would argue the last few minutes of the play were the climax), and yet, again, the playwright tried to say way too much.
To learn more about Infinite Life and purchase tickets click here
[Review by Shan Fernando]