MILLI – Basement Theatre: April 7, 2026 (13th Floor Theatre Review)
MILLI sustains a constant, almost unbearable tension as though something is always on the verge of erupting. Don’t be misled by its theatrical framing, because beneath the surface lies a story of desire, vulnerability, and…corn.
Going in, I had seen a few social media posts and felt a sense of confusion that never quite settled. This is a performance that seems to rely heavily on prior understanding. Without that context, it can feel out of reach.
The surreal, mime-driven performance creates a kind of theatrical whirlwind, where the audience is left to piece together meaning. There are moments that feel repetitive or unclear, yet there’s no denying the commitment of the creator and performer Emilio Mancilla. From the beginning, they bring an electrifying energy to the stage, and it’s evident this work is deeply personal and is a true passion project.
At its core, the piece attempts to explore a traumatic coming-of-age story, presented with a heightened, almost Baz Luhrmann-esque intensity. While the performance is rich in movement, it occasionally feels disconnected and lacking a clear sense of direction or purpose.
The recurring use of corn as a central prop and metaphor is bold, but not entirely convincing. The symbolism feels strained, never quite landing with the intended impact. I couldn’t help but imagine an alternative, something like aloe vera: resilient and sharp on the outside, yet soft and healing within. It might have offered a more cohesive and resonant metaphor to the overall story.
In conversation with another audience member afterward, it became clear that those who had attended a prior reading with Mancilla had a much firmer grasp of the narrative, and a greater appreciation for the work. For the rest of us, however, the experience felt fragmented, an ambitious attempt to say something meaningful, but ultimately obscured by a lack of clarity and context.
If you’re open to something unconventional, it’s worth experiencing and supporting the local arts community. While this performance didn’t quite resonate with me, the passion and courage it takes to step on stage and share such a personal story is admirable, and well worth applauding. Supported by Rainbow New Zealand Charitable Trust & Rule Foundation, this is performing at Basement Theatre from April 7th until the 11th.
MISS PEACH
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