Snippets of songs and voices coming through an old radio introduce Janie Gibson’s take on the story of Joan of Arc and its insights and echoes of the treatment of women throughout history. As the performer skims through the radio stations we briefly hear about the mistreatment of women in Palestine, the disgusting coverage of Julia Gillard when she was Prime Minister, the tragedy of Benazir Bhutto, misogyny in Trump’s America, and similar tales of abuse. These and other fragments set up themes that are further investigated by the narrative.
Whilst a substantial aspect of the play is the history and trial of Joan of Arc there are numerous diversions into modern day life that reflect and draw upon the similarities and connections that exist, then and now, especially relating discrimination and to the belittling of women. It is thought provoking and entertaining the way the performer switches between these strands and the costume changes and the diverse styles of delivery add to the complexity
One of many on stage costume changes follow and we hear from a judge at the heresy trial of Joan of Arc and about her crimes such as wearing men’s clothes, acting upon visions that were demonic, and refusing to submit her words and deeds to the judgment of the Catholic church. It seems her biggest threat was challenging the power structures and might of the Catholic church.Janie explains the power struggles in France during Joan’s childhood as a conflict between the Burgundians and Armagnac before the English became involved. Janie delightfully cleaves apart a small wheel of camembert and employs a block of cheddar to demonstrate the state of affairs.
After another on stage costume change a German character is introduced who is a writer, ostensibly an authority on witches, and a buffoon, and historically contributed to the death of many women, over the centuries, accused of witchcraft. He adds both comic relief to the narrative but also exposes the societal mistreatment of women that Janie is scrutinising.
Through clever use of audience involvement and props we are made complicit in the treatment of Joan of Arc and by association the mistreatment of many women. It is lots of fun with a serious edge to it.
Performer & Creator – Janie Gibson, Director and Co-Creator – Anu Almagro, Composer – Liesl Pieterse, Lighting Design – Fausto Brusamolino, Dramaturgy – Emilie Collyer, Additional Composers – Xani Kolac and Toecutter, Stills Photographer – Lee Illfield
VOICES OF JOAN is playing the PACT Theatre in Erskineville until 14th September. It is part of the Sydney Fringe Festival and is a thoughtful and complex production.
