Vere (Faith)

(Sydney Theatre Company)

In 'Vere (Faith)' an academic is diagnosed with dementia and faces his future of diminished capacity.

'Vere' as a name is said to be of French origin which according to this play means 'faith'. It is an uncommon name which seems to have gone out of favour in Australia as a given name - if it ever was in favour - from the mid twentieth century. The most famous men to have borne this given name in Australia appear to have been Herbert Vere Evatt, a politician at both state and federal level who as a representative of Australia played a role in the establishment of the United Nations, and Vere Gordon Childe, an archaeologist and philologist. Both are referenced in the play.

'Vere (Faith)' is a new play by John Doyle and it is inspired by Doyle's experience caring for his father who suffered dementia and Doyle's interest in Childe's career. The play has some rough edges which no doubt will be worked on the more it is staged but even so it has relevance to contemporary issues and contains much humour laced with a degree of sadness.

Paul Blackwell is a delight as the title character displaying much kindness, wisdom and generosity. Geoff Morell is also standout especially in the first half in his character as a Vice Chancellor with a roving eye for attractive young women.

Anyone who has been a carer for an elderly (or ageing) dementia sufferer will relate to this work. People with a literal belief in religion may prefer to steer clear of it.
★★★★