It’s Time for Something Powerful—A Review of 4:48 Psychosis

For many, theatre is largely well known musicals and an occasional straight play that people are aware of from its film version. However, there is a significant amount of theatre that subverts these conditions in favor of showcasing something unusual and raw. Something that provokes conversation and reflection in a way that conventional productions cannot. This is certainly the case with Vigilance Theater Group’s adaptation of 4:48 Psychosis, directed by Harper York and Brooke Echnat.

Playwright Sarah Kane’s final work before she passed, 4:48 Psychosis is a hauntingly lyrical meditation on suicide and similar subjects. Absent of the traditional elements of a play, this piece of theatre simultaneously unsettles and enlightens through content and form. All-too relatable for some and equally alien to others, this show paints an unflinching portrait of an artist’s afflicted mind and soul.

The entire cast (Bradleigh Bell, Allie Lampman Sims, Ivy Mackinson, Marisa Postava, Anne Rematt, and Abbie Siecinski) deliver riveting performances. Their ability to commit to the demands of their respective roles is astounding. From the required physicality to the audience interaction to the actual lines they have to deliver—a difficult feat due to the substance of the text as well as the lack of narrative context to remember when and what to say—their skill is undeniable.

Technical elements are a huge part of this production, hence the immersive aspect. Director Harper York utilizes light, sound, costumes, props, and set in a way that really brings audiences into the world. The space itself is brilliantly utilized. This adaptation sets itself apart from others with the immersive choices it makes, allowing anyone to leave with not just a better understanding of Sarah Kane’s struggles, but of mental health issues overall. Vigilance’s entire creative team crafts an engaging and entertaining production that is still sincere and respectful of the source material.

Vigilance continues to push the envelope with their unique immersive experiences. Whether they’re presenting an original work or interpreting someone else’s, their influence is impossible to ignore. Doing what most other companies can’t or won’t do puts them in an incredible position to bring unparalleled productions to the Pittsburgh area.

-JS

“4:48 Psychosis” continues its run through November 24th in the Point Breeze Neighborhood. For more information, click here.