EVERY SECOND

Every Second, Darlinghurst Theatre and Michael Sieders, Eternity Playhouse 27 June - 27 July. Photography: Louis Dillon-Savage: Simon Corfield, Glenn Hazeldine, Julia Ohannessian and Georgina Symes. Right: Glenn Hazeldine and Georgina Symes.

Every Second is about the touchy subject of what to expect when you're not expecting but really want to and end up trying everything from IVF to "special" diets in an effort to have a baby.

It's torture in various forms, similar to sticking bamboo shoots under your fingernails while inhaling ammonia fumes. It's unpleasant and some would say unnecessary. It's also a subject that polarises. Some relate while others are sick of "the conversation". But in Every Second writer Vanessa Bates manages to concieve (see what I did there?) a script that is very well written and free from cliches. It's funny, touching and cleverly traverses the landscape of intimate relationships as they change over time. 

This is a warts and all portrayal of how challenging it can be to connect and commit to another human being, while still maintaining a sense of self and the individual.

We see two couples, four friends who are glued together in their quest to get pregnant. Tim (Simon Corfield) and Meg (Julia Ohannessian) are doing it the "natural" way, instituting daily herbal infusions and clean diets - no alcohol, no sugar, no wheat sounds fun right? - and sex at certain times when the moon is full and high. Jen (Georgina Symes) and Bill (Glenn Hazeldine) decide to take the IVF route which also presents challenges of its own.

The situation that Tim, Meg, Jen and Bill find themselves in sets the scene for some wonderful situations, ripe for outrageous performances. Director Shannon Murphy uses every opportunity to milk Every Second for its comedy and sincerity. There is mad and rampant rooting, dancing sperm (evoking a Pythonesque mad-cap quality) and sensitive human moments that are searingly real.

The cast of four are a group of fantastic actors and each of them turns in a performance that is well developed and delicately formed. But it is Glenn Hazeldine's portrayal of the loveable, well-meaning and at times misunderstood Bill who is the standout. Hazeldine understands his craft and uses it to create nuance and subtleties that are unexpected. 

Andy McDonell's extremely clever set design is incredibly multi-purpose but never feels utilitarian. It constantly creates interest and is easily transformed into a variety of locations. But it is Tieranan Cross' stunningly beautiful sound and music design that rounds out this production. Simply put if the CD was for sale in the foyer I would have bought it. 

Even if the idea of hearing about the quest to have children, still makes you feel uneasy, seeing Every Second is worth it just to witness the dancing sperm - absolutely hilarious!