I attended a media preview of this show. All opinions are my own.

I had the privilege of attending An Intervention, written by Mike Bartlett and directed by Aaron Craven. Performance Works’ presentation of “An Intervention” offers a compelling exploration of friendship, personal boundaries, and the complexities of navigating modern-day challenges. From its stellar performances to its timely themes, the production captivates audiences with its thought-provoking narrative and emotional resonance.

Kate Craven did an outstanding job playing “A”. Her character is a sassy, opinionated powerhouse of a woman who has an overwhelming sense of social responsibility. She is devasted and enraged at the world’s state of affairs, as a war is taking place in the Middle East. Christian Westerveld plays “B”, and he was phenomenal as well. Westerveld masterfully navigates “B’s” journey from steadfast friend to a figure torn between loyalty and personal desires. His portrayal adds layers of complexity to the character, inviting audiences to empathize with his internal conflicts and moral dilemmas. The story essentially examines friendship and boundaries. It looks at what it means to be a good friend while simultaneously showing respect and understanding-which can be challenging, to say the least. Making and retaining friends seems so daunting in this highly screen-obsessed, Wi-Fi-dependent existence we are currently living in. Friendships seem more fragile than they used to be because people can be so easily replaced, in many cases. True friendship in which you can freely share opinions without repercussions or judgement is rare.

A and B have a truly special friendship, which is tested when B gets involved with a woman who doesn’t approve of A. Their
friendship goes through hardships and pain but withstands it all in the end. It’s such a heartwarming and touching story that a lot of us can connect with, as we navigate our way through friendships and romantic relationships. Against the backdrop of global conflict and personal struggles, the play offers a poignant commentary on the importance of empathy and understanding in fostering meaningful connections. It serves as a reminder of the power of human compassion in the face of adversity, urging audiences to approach contentious issues with kindness and compassion.

Despite its weighty subject matter, An Intervention balances moments of gravity with touches of humor and levity, creating a dynamic and engaging theatrical experience. The play’s ability to seamlessly transition between moments of introspection and light-heartedness underscores its narrative versatility and thematic richness. It captures the complexities of the human experience with poignancy and authenticity, leaving a lasting impression on its audience. I was absolutely enthralled by it from start to finish.

When: March 8th to 17th, 2024

Where: Performance Works, 1218 Cartwright St., Vancouver, BC

Tickets: $25+