Three Little Words by Joanna Murray-Smith is a clever play about two couples who have known each other for over twenty years. Tess (Anna Jullienne) and Curtis (Sam Bunkall); are straight while Annie (Michelle Blundell) and Bonnie (Jacque Drew) are gay.
The four of them holiday together and share a deep connection and bonhomie that seems unassailable until Tess and Curtis make an announcement about their future. This throws the entire dynamic of the foursome into conflict. What follows is a hilarious and at times very dramatic set of encounters and arguments which shed a light on the unspoken desires, hurts, and tensions that have actually been hidden from one another over their decades long friendship.
It turns out that they are all a little bit damaged, self-absorbed and haven’t been entirely honest about their unresolved issues. What emerges is a fascinating exploration of marriage and its frustrations, compromises and betrayals.
Under the surface, each character has their own set of problems and flaws. Tess is demanding, jealous and hypocritical. Curtis is neglectful and capable, when pushed, of cruel responses. Bonnie has divided loyalties and while loving is also controlling and belittles people, especially her spouse. Annie, seemingly the least sophisticated, is perhaps the one with the most insight.
This is a well-crafted and structured story with sharp dialogue and a great balance of the dramatic, sardonic, and comedic moments. On the surface it seems a devastating critique of marriage, but at its heart it is actually about the harmful effects of dishonesty and complacency.
This is a play that needs impeccable casting and these four actors definitely delivered with flawless chemistry and an ability to work through some decidedly tense moments that included one very dramatic physical fight. Director Simon Prast has an ability to bring out the best in his actors and this ensemble was no exception.
Three Little Words is a very confident production with a simple but impactful set design and superb costuming. It is filled with heartbreak and devastating humour while exploring and challenging all of our assumptions about relationships.
THREE LITTLE WORDS
15 – 25 May 2025
The Pumphouse – Takapuna, Auckland