What I liked
Platonic best friendships are so rarely showcased with such depth and love as displayed here in this show, and it’s a treat to see that kind of relationship given as much care as it deserves. The production used minimal effects to great benefit, really letting the audience sit in the moments with the actors. The final scene where the characters can hug again for the first time in years is incredibly powerful, and the audience could really feel that emotion through the performances and dialogue in that scene. It’s a beautiful moment that hinges on the build-up of their relationship over the snapshots of years we see.
What I didn't like
There were a few moments that were tough to see in the back rows, particularly the movement on the floor. Though the minimal use of music and sound worked, the show could maybe have benefited from some music between scene transitions. The performances also felt a little hurried throughout, but I expect seeing the show later in its run will see them smoothing out the kinks and really feeling like the actors are living inside each moment.
My overall impression
Goodbye Hello is an excellent, heartwarming story of the trajectory of two best friends’ lives and afterlives. A genuine piece with a lot of heart and a conclusion that brings a tear to anyone’s eye. It’s a joy to watch these two performers depict the ups and downs of their relationship, and the play does a lot with what they have, creating an incredible effective narrative and memorable characters.
