This review is of ‘Schism’s original 2016 run at Theatre 503
The world needs authentic stories about disability, and ‘Schism’ is as authentic as they come.
Playwright Athena Stevens, who also performs in the work, was born with athetoid cerebral palsy. When her character, Katherine, rages against being placed in special education despite her intelligence, it feels like a howl of protest from a writer who understands her character’s anger and despair.
The two-hander follows the evolving relationship between Katherine and her teacher, Harrison (Tim Beckmann). Over a period of 20 years, ‘Schism’ explores ideas around disability, ambition and expectations. This is important stuff, so it’s a shame so much of the writing is clunky. No subtext is left unexplained in Alex Sims’ production. That might have been forgiven had the story been more absorbing, but the leaps through time (bridged by a radio announcer rattling off news stories from Monica Lewinsky to 9/11) rob the audience of the chance to invest in the characters. We don’t see the moment Katherine and Harrison’s relationship transitions into romance, so it never feels as real as it should.
It’s a play full of messages that audiences need to hear, but sometimes it’s better to whisper than to shout.