Mrs Goldie vs The World at Original Theatre online

Mrs Goldie vs The World is an online play written and performed by Nicky Goldie. The structure is quite simple: the protagonist uses a variety of accents and voices to give life to the conversations she relays. This is a decent compromise for dealing with the current lockdown situation; the casual delivery coupled with the preparation of a meal, if even for a little bit, offers solace and escape from the morbid state of reality. It is also reflective of the digital storytime trend on social media platforms such as YouTube and Instagram.

The variety of topics covered in just a 16-minute talk takes viewers on all kinds of journeys: from reminiscing over Hitler and Einstein, to somber moments of deceased friends and cancer and an older lady’s musings on today’s youth. The seamless transition between these different subjects connects well with the multiple stages of cooking displayed throughout the piece. The sarcastic delivery of darker content is fitting with Goldie’s grievances and experiences of taking care of her 94-year-old mother, and is accompanied by the pan’s sizzle and smokiness. One can almost smell the tantalising food being prepared on the other side of the screen.

Though subtle, there is creative use of available props, such as breaking pasta when frustrated and regretful; chopping the knife in exaggerated motions to indicate exasperation; and taking a drink from the wine glass when making snide remarks. This rollercoaster of emotions is reflective of both the comical yet challenging feelings most mothers and daughters face when growing with each other. It’s that love-hate endearment; the irritation that the mother feels finding that she no longer knows better and the daughter trying to navigate with her parent through changing times without stepping over boundaries.

Despite the simplicity of the set and production, there is a glimmer of poetic nuance. There is that light of admiration in Goldie’s eyes as she talks of her indestructible mother. It’s those little things that evoke some kind of realisation to a seemingly convoluted story. The finishing line adds a sense of finality to the play; a complete juxtaposition to the determined and hopeful insistence of its tone. Mrs Goldie vs The World is a satisfying full circle as the woman who has talked of nothing but wanting to die now believes she still has something to live for.

Mae Trumata

Mrs Goldie vs The World is available online from 12^th November until 27^th November 2020. For further information or to book visit the theatre’s website here.