It felt like we were a rather select group gathering in the lower section of Gippsland’s newest theatre for Become The One. This was the first professional drama to be staged at Traralgon’s remarkable new theatre (I’m quite sure my inhalation on entering was audible backstage), and it was definitely a worthy piece to be so honoured. What a shame the local community didn’t jump at the chance to see it in droves, because Become The One is a great story for all audiences, not just the rainbow community!

This play really does stand on the masterful writing of Adam Fawcett, who has crafted two beautifully rich characters and an engaging plot. They’re brought to life by Chris Asimos and Mason Gasowski, who at once seem to embody their characters’ respective stereotypes without ever allowing them to be reduced to nothing more than that stereotype; a remarkable achievement in itself! They both brilliantly play the script’s undulations with impeccable pathos and timing.

It was disappointing, in this context, that the scene changes slowed that pace. I don’t think the story warranted so many costume changes… but the scenes themselves certainly rewarded our patience.

Become The One is billed as a romantic comedy, and I suppose it is not unusual for romantic comedies to get quite serious. But I was surprised when the drama built to a particularly strong crescendo quite early in the piece. This would usually tilt the balance a little too much towards melodrama, but I did feel the characters had been established well enough to carry even quite a lengthy silence.

This has been the most engaging piece of theatre I’ve had the privilege to see this year, and I hope they see great success as the tour continues.