Keith Gow

The modern myth of the superhero is a kind of wish fulfilment, though the concept of the “superman” or ubermensch comes from Friedrich Nietzsche’s 1883 work, Thus Spake Zarathustra. His idea was that humans would continually improve; a more ideal form is waiting for people in the future. Comic books find ways to speed along this evolution. So, we watch stories of heroes who fly, cannot be hurt, cannot be touched or, in some cases, are billionaires using their wealth for good. A real fantasy. Emilie Collyer’s new play, Super, which is currently running at Red Stitch Actor’s Theatre, is interested in more intimate powers that might help you day-to-day. Phoenix (Lucy Ansell) has the ability to dissipate someone’s anger; calm them down without a fight. Rae (Caroline Lee) brings people into her emotional vulnerability; if she cries, everyone else cries. And Nel (Laila Thacker) is so efficient, she can do the most basic tasks in the blink of an eye – and she can whip up a spreadsheet that will blow your mind. The origin story of Collyer’s latest dramatic work begins with a year of treatment for breast cancer. Her experience is deeply embedded in the play; these characters have been misdiagnosed or otherwise mistreated by the medical establishment. Their powers are pathologized or dismissed and they have to form their own support group to work their way through these radical changes. Phoenix is desperate to use her new ability ethically and with empathy. Nel has helped local clubs w