The Subplot: A hyperfixation on the Titan submersible - 9 out of 10
Sophie Smyth
TICKETS: End of Season
Murray Bridge born and raised Sophie Smyth delivers an
extraordinary piece of storytelling that dives far beneath the surface, turning
the implosion of the Titan submersible into a gripping, funny, and profoundly
moving exploration of obsession, family, and self-knowledge in The Subplot:
A hyperfixation on the Titan submersible.
The disappearance of the Titan submersible gripped the world
for a week in 2023. Five rich men were willing to be bolted into a submersible whose
owner had a lack of care for regulations and safety for a chance to see the sunken
Titanic. We know the submersible imploded, and some may know a few more
details, but Smyth’s thorough research that we basically scraped the barrel with
in this show would make a strong contender for Tom Gleeson’s Hard Quiz!
Smyth’s performance is an irresistible blend of sharp humour, emotional honesty, and meticulous research. She perfectly balances a playful, satirical look at the absurdity of OceanGate with a powerful and introspective reflection on humanity and what connects us. The result is theatre that is both intelligent and heartfelt—clever enough to make you think, yet tender enough to make you feel.
Audience members were completely absorbed, hanging on every
word in a full house that alternated between laughter and silence. The
storytelling is dense yet crystal clear, drawing laughter in one moment and
quiet reflection in the next, delivered with a tight script. It’s a rare
experience to see a performer hold an audience’s focus so intently, and Smyth
does so with a lightness of touch that’s magnetic and full of charm.
Visually and conceptually, the production is wonderfully
staged, supporting Smyth’s dynamic presence without ever overshadowing her
commanding delivery. It’s funny, subtle, and thought-provoking in equal
measure—an unexpectedly introspective take on such an absurd tragedy.
Smyth deserves every bit of confetti thrown her way for a
performance that’s engaging, clever, and full of heart.
- Andrew Broadbent
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