I Call My Brothers is a thought-provoking and intense play that takes us through a 24 hour period in a young man’s mind.
Originally set in Stockholm, the current MTC production brings an Australian aspect to the show. In the wake of a car bomb going off, Amor (Osamah Sami) has an errand to run. Over the course of the 24 hours, Amor must navigate a changed city where surveillance may or may not be following him and his large backpack around. Despite his attempts to blend in and be “normal”, Amor’s mental state deteriorates and the audience is left wondering what is a truth and what is a lie. The story shifts cleverly between direct addresses to the audience and interactions with other characters to explain what happens over these 24 hours and how Amor has come to be in this time and place. Chats with his cousin, phone calls to an unrequited crush and visions of his dead grandma – all these interactions weave together and lead to a powerful and sombre ending.
Despite the bleak topic, the script itself has some delightfully funny and inspired moments, which are enhanced by the talents of director Nadja Kostich and her ability to direct with a beautiful sensitivity. Ray Chong Nee as Amor’s cousin Shavi is the highlight of the show and brings a much-needed warmth to this dark story, while the striking nature of Michael Carmody’s video design, Rachel Burke’s lighting design and Marg Horwell’s set highlights Amor’s eventual breakdown and inability to grip onto reality. In a world where having a beard or dark skin or carrying a backpack can be cause for suspicion, I Call My Brothers is a topical and unflinching look at social paranoia and what it can mean for the individual.
BY MYF CLARK
