I Do: A Wedding Day Drama that Tackles Real-Life Woes with Sensitivity and Humor
In this captivating site-specific production, Daphna Attias and Terry O'Donovan's masterful storytelling weaves a poignant tale of love, family, and heartbreak, expertly capturing the messy emotional landscape of a wedding day. Set in six interlocking rooms within a luxurious hotel, the audience is transported to the final 10 minutes before the ceremony, where the nerves, tantrums, and "inappropriate" first dances take center stage.
As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that I Do is more than just a voyeuristic exercise; it's an immersive exploration of human emotions. With each room revealing a new scenario, from the regretful tenderness between Georgie's mother and her unfaithful ex-husband to the same-sex passion involving the best man, Joe, the show masterfully conveys the complexities of love and relationships.
The performances are searing, with the entire cast delivering standout moments. The set design by Jenny Hayton perfectly balances the opulent hotel world with the personal detritus of the characters, while Attias's direction allows for a stillness that allows emotions to evolve through subtle looks, touches, and expressions.
One of the most striking aspects of I Do is its ability to balance humor and heartbreak. The show tackles real-life woes – including infidelity, family drama, and illness – with sensitivity and nuance, making it impossible not to become invested in almost every character by the end.
If there's a criticism to be made, it's that some elements feel a tad corny or clichéd – such as the returning cleaner who serves as a narrative device. However, even this quirk adds a surreal charm to the production.
Ultimately, I Do is a wonderful and heart-wrenching exploration of what makes love so messy and beautiful. With its expert storytelling, outstanding performances, and stunning set design, this show is an unforgettable experience that will leave you laughing, crying, and perhaps even questioning your own relationship – all in the span of one poignant hour.
In this captivating site-specific production, Daphna Attias and Terry O'Donovan's masterful storytelling weaves a poignant tale of love, family, and heartbreak, expertly capturing the messy emotional landscape of a wedding day. Set in six interlocking rooms within a luxurious hotel, the audience is transported to the final 10 minutes before the ceremony, where the nerves, tantrums, and "inappropriate" first dances take center stage.
As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that I Do is more than just a voyeuristic exercise; it's an immersive exploration of human emotions. With each room revealing a new scenario, from the regretful tenderness between Georgie's mother and her unfaithful ex-husband to the same-sex passion involving the best man, Joe, the show masterfully conveys the complexities of love and relationships.
The performances are searing, with the entire cast delivering standout moments. The set design by Jenny Hayton perfectly balances the opulent hotel world with the personal detritus of the characters, while Attias's direction allows for a stillness that allows emotions to evolve through subtle looks, touches, and expressions.
One of the most striking aspects of I Do is its ability to balance humor and heartbreak. The show tackles real-life woes – including infidelity, family drama, and illness – with sensitivity and nuance, making it impossible not to become invested in almost every character by the end.
If there's a criticism to be made, it's that some elements feel a tad corny or clichéd – such as the returning cleaner who serves as a narrative device. However, even this quirk adds a surreal charm to the production.
Ultimately, I Do is a wonderful and heart-wrenching exploration of what makes love so messy and beautiful. With its expert storytelling, outstanding performances, and stunning set design, this show is an unforgettable experience that will leave you laughing, crying, and perhaps even questioning your own relationship – all in the span of one poignant hour.