Humour and Heart Collide in Geelong Rep’s RIPCORD

COMING to the recently refurbished Woodbin Theatre, Geelong Repertory Theatre Company’s coming comedy Ripcord asks audiences if they are taking in everything life has to offer.

American playwright David Lindsay-Abaire’s play is described by director Scott Beaton as “a razor-sharp black comedy”.

Set in a retirement village, Ripcord follows grumpy resident Abby (Lisa Berry) and her cheerful new roommate, Marilyn (Robyn Birrell), who strike up a bet resulting in a series of comedic consequences.

If Abby makes Marylin angry, she keeps the room to herself; if Marylin scares Abby, she wins the coveted bed by the window.

“They do despicable things to each other… but it’s also about love, life and regret,” Beaton said

Beaton described Berry and Birrel as “extremely talented, very funny, with great comic timing”. They are also supported by an ensemble of actors tackling multiple roles throughout the play.

For Beaton, Ripcord’s duality of humour and emotional resonance struck a personal chord.

“Having spent time with my elderly parents in a retirement village… the environment and the people really resonated with me,” he said.

Beaton also has experience skydiving, from which Ripcord gets its name.

“At one point, they end up on the plane, and one of the characters says life is similar to pulling the ripcord.”

“You’re hurtling towards your death at thousand miles an hour but if you pull that thread, you can slow down, look around and take life in.”

Ripcord will mark Beaton’s eighth time directing with for Geelong Repertory Theatre Company.

After discovering the company in 2001, Beaton said “I thought ‘Where’s this place been all my life?’.”

25 years later, he has not looked back. “I think I’m up to about 30 shows which I’ve been involved in as either an actor, director or producer,” he said.

“It is my second home.”

Beaton also met his wife through the company, and their children share their parents’ combined love of theatre.

“It’s a real family affair,” he said.

Beaton hopes audiences leave Ripcord not only laughing, but also thinking about their own life.

“I’d like people to reflect – do I want to hurtle through life, or do I pull that ripcord and take it all in?”

Ripcord opens on February 6 at The Woodbin Theatre. For more information, head to geelongartscentre.org.au/whats-on/all-events/ripcord