Is the best art created when life falls apart? This October, TRU’s students performed Plucker at the Actors Workshop Theatre, inviting audiences to reflect on the depth behind that very question.
The plot for Plucker follows Alexis (Zoe Caller), a musician and pet owner who decides to move in with her boyfriend, Louis (Deidrick Orton). The story reveals the struggles Alexis faces as both an artist and a partner, balancing creativity, identity, and love. What follows is a gradual regression of Alexis’ mental state. Frustrated that the pieces in her life’s puzzle seem to be out of her sight, Alexis begins to spiral, trapping her and her unsuspecting partner in a seemingly never-ending cycle of petty arguments.
Not being their first time on stage, Caller effectively understood the duality of the character as an artist whose career success is dependent on receiving a grant, while at the same time, she is a struggling partner in a relationship who tries but cannot grasp the emotional clarity she desires. With her talent, Caller draws in the audience from the very moment she appears on stage. Orton, in his supporting role as Alexis’ boyfriend, was fundamental for the plot because it is his character that aids Alexis in completing her quest, all while delivering an excellent performance that complements Caller and her talent without upstaging the protagonist.
This was made evident by Orton’s ability to act with passion and sometimes playfulness. Though Plucker marked his stage debut for the Actors Workshop Theatre, he successfully balanced the passion and lightness his character required.
Adding to the production’s look and feel were truly remarkable sets that afforded the play a real sense of authenticity and rawness. From sets including such stunning aesthetics as a window leading to an external fire escape–resembling those one might find on buildings inside of New York City–to quaint interiors with subtle green walls, unique furniture, and a raised platform serving as the dining room, the set design was brilliant. Such thoughtful arrangements, along with other minor details around the set, allowed the actors to move naturally and the crew to shift scenes efficiently.
Beyond the humor and quarrels, the play leaves the audience with a powerful, touching message that explores themes of commitment and cohabitation, while showcasing the struggles with integrity, self-esteem, and self-awareness that some couples face.
Written by Alena Smith, Plucker premiered 15 years ago at London’s Southwark Playhouse. While Smith didn’t gain much recognition for this contemporary comedy, her later Apple TV+ series Dickinson (2019) reached a much wider audience.
The Actor’s Workshop Theatre’s production of Plucker was directed by Wesley Eccleston, with performances by Zoe Caller and Deidrick Orton.