by guest critic Amy Toledano

In the time of #metoo and what seems to be never-ending news of sexual harassment cases in the celebrity world, The Buzz by Lydia Rynne is a new perspective on how deeply the repercussions of such actions run.

With a simple set dressed all in white, it is evident that director Velenzia Spearpoint has a distinct vision for the piece. The flow and pace are clear and concise, and with the audience seated in traverse (a new look for The Bread and Roses Theatre), those watching feel deeply included in what’s happening on stage.

Sassy Clyde, who plays Kyla, leads this story with a lovely balance of strength and sadness. Her support for her famous, musician boyfriend Josh (Andrew Umerah), is unwavering and although she appears to be getting the short end of the stick, she accepts her role in their relationship and remains with him.

A surprise, late-night visit from her brother Nate (Gabriel Cagan) and a mystery woman (Hannah Duffy) reveals a dark secret about Josh that Kyla cannot see past. The interesting thing about this play though is that the choices each character makes, while seeming to be important and selfless, are much more self-serving underneath.

The Buzz evokes laughter and heartbreak through dark comedy about how fame and success can cloud people’s judgement, and the lengths they go to in order to get what they want.

The Buzz runs through 19 May.

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