REVIEW: SANCTUARY by Christine Rose at The Hope Theatre 26 - 30 November 2024

Photography: Christine Rose

“A courageous performance that explores the dangers of fascism, escalating male violence, and white supremacy—all against the 

backdrop of a divided America” ★★★★

‘Sanctuary’ is an emotionally moving and eye-opening play that reflects the political despairs of American society. Themes of misogyny, domestic violence, and Democrats vs Republicans are heavily displayed. The play is set in Cassie’s (Laura Shipler Chico) basement, where she and her lifelong friend Amelia (Andrea Milton-Furlotti) find sanctuary amidst the violence unfolding outside. From a contextualised standpoint, the action is futuristic and takes place in February 2025, suggesting the aftermath of the recent presidential establishment. Can the two best friends share a safe haven even with their juxtaposing political beliefs?

The opening scene set an ambient tone to the play, despite the plot’s nature. The theatre in the round layout allowed us a 360 degrees view of Cassie in a meditative position, emphasised by calming blue lights, LED candles, and zen music. However, Cassie’s fidgeting made it obvious that something was obstructing her ability to relax. Considering the subject, this element worked extremely well as it gave the audience a contradicting illusion. Soothing music was playing in the background inside Cassie's basement, yet outside, chaos was unfolding, with intensifying violence and gun shots which were mimicked through the soundscape by Sound Designer Jerry Chater. 

Cassie’s over-the-top acting style to convey her adamant perspectives was done in a comedic manner; nevertheless, Amelia wasn’t complying. The theme of girlhood was brought to light when Cassie and Amelia were reminiscing on memories from their youth. To display this, they performed a choreography to Madonna’s 1989 hit ‘Express Yourself’.

Towards the end, Amelia became the victim of fascist violence when she left the basement to go outside. To externalise the battle occurring in Cassie’s mind, she is seen to clearly hear the scene and her friend pleading for help.

I peeked over to my right and saw an audience member, in her early 20s, shed real tears. The powerful ideologies communicated through ‘Sanctuary’ left me speechless in a positive way. This play touched sensitive areas surrounding the issues women are subject to, in a bold and daring way. 

‘Sanctuary’ at Hope Theatre 26th - 30th November 

Written and Produced by Christine Rose

Directed by Donna King 

Laura Shiper Chico as Cassie

Andrea Milton-Furlotti as Amelia 

Assistant Director Elena Rigoni 

Lighting Designer Melody Mengyun Liu

Sound Designer Jerry Chater