Review: 'Bonjour, la, Bonjour' at Theatre Erindale
By: Mark Andrew Lawrence Feb. 06, 2009
A young man returns to his loving family after a three-month sojourn in Europe. Sound heartwarming, doesn't it? You have no idea of the drama that awaits you in Theater Erindale's production of Bonjour, La, Bonjour.
This non-linear play by Michel Tremblay is constructed like a symphony, introducing themes and variations, changing harmonies, and weaving a rich tapestry that provides a portrait of a dysfunctional family.
Dysfunctional only begins to describe this group. The young man, Serge is
Portrayed by Bryn Dewar in a remarkable performance that communicates a great deal through silence and stillness. In fact for the first 10 minutes after his entrance he merely listens as everyone talks to him, at him and about him.
The role could become a cipher where the surrounding people define the character but Dewar, in collaboration with director Terry Tweed, explores every scrap of information about this particular young man. The result is a performance this is mesmerizing.
No where is this more apparent than in the final discussion between Serge and his father, played by Andy Ingram, who may be using his hearing device to shut out the sniping of Serge's aunts played to perfection by Jenn Sartor and Bridget Mantha.
Danielle Ayow as Serge's oldest sister has the meatiest part, as a malcontent riding the waves on conflicting emotion. She antagonizes Serge - mostly by having a liaison with one of his young friends - but she also makes him think.
His two middle sisters also antagonize him. Denise (in a rambunctious performance by Jess Phelan) seems determined to get into his pants while Monique (Laura MacDonald in an achingly sad portrayal) has severe addiction problems.
It is the youngest sister, Nicole, with whom Serge has formed a deep emotional bond. An incestuous bond which everyone one the family knows about, but no one wants ton discuss for fear that this news will leak out bringing shame on the family.
There is a lot going on in this short play and like a three-course meal it leaves you with a lot to digest. What you will remember most are the vivid performances and in particular the actor playing Serge: Bryn Dewar.
Bonjour, Là, Bonjour plays until February 7 at Theatre Erindale. For tickets visit www.theatreerindale.com or call the box Office at 905-569-4369.
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