The human heart, a resilient yet fragile organ, has inspired countless artistic expressions, and now, a unique play titled 'Heartbreak Hotel' delves into the depths of heartbreak, offering a cathartic experience. This production, a fusion of theater and music, explores the universal pain of heartbreak and its profound impact on the body and mind.
The Science of Heartbreak
In the realm of medicine, heartbreak has a literal manifestation known as takotsubo cardiomyopathy, or 'broken heart syndrome.' This condition, first identified by Dr. Hikaru Sato in 1983, occurs after significant stressors, often emotional, causing a temporary weakening of the heart muscle. The left ventricle, in these cases, takes on the shape of a takotsubo, a Japanese octopus pot, hence the name.
Writer and actor Karin McCracken, captivated by this phenomenon, describes it as 'poetry made manifest.' She finds it incredible that such an emotional state has a physical, tangible impact on the heart.
A Universal Experience
McCracken, co-director of the New Zealand theater company EBKM, was inspired to create 'Heartbreak Hotel' after her own prolonged heartbreak. She sought to fill a void in cultural media, aiming for a balance between authenticity and reassurance. As she puts it, 'is there a way to strike a chord right down the middle of those two things?'
The show's research delves into literature and music, drawing from Sylvia Plath, Pablo Neruda, and Charles Dickens, among others. McCracken also cites Joan Didion's memoir and Rachel Cusk's work on marriage and separation, highlighting the cruel nature of grief and its lack of hope.
The Performance
'Heartbreak Hotel' is a unique performance, blending play and monologue with a no-fourth-wall approach. McCracken's performance is described as formally inventive, with nonlinear scenes depicting the aftermath of a breakup. She ensures the show is not devoid of humor, recognizing the need for levity in such a heavy topic.
The musical covers range from Elvis Presley's classic to Bonnie Raitt's ballad and even Prince's 'Nothing Compares 2 U.'
The Physical and Emotional Impact
Heartache has well-documented physical effects, including changes in stress hormone levels and activation of the anterior cingulate cortex, an area of the brain associated with pain and rejection. Interestingly, this same brain area is linked to the emotional experience of awe, which McCracken sees as a potential antidote to heartbreak. She suggests that experiencing awe minimizes self-focus and allows one to see themselves as part of a larger, beautiful whole.
A Broader Perspective
'Heartbreak Hotel' offers a unique perspective on a universal experience. It highlights the physical manifestation of emotional pain and the potential for growth and resilience. As McCracken's show tours Australia, it invites audiences to reflect on their own experiences of heartbreak and the power of art to heal and inspire.
