Look Back In Anger
January 31, 2009
Old Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham
Date reviewed: 29th Jan 2009
A thoroughly rewarding night at a truly delightful theatre. The enthusiasm, determination and energy of the young and local cast brings this work to life in a crisp and pacy version produced by one of the cast, Alex Farrell, for his own company. The cast’s energy and commitment more than makes up for any first night nerves or lack of experience. And in Lauren O’Neill (playing Alison Porter), a superb actress has been discovered.
The setting is a 1950’s flat with the iconic (ancient) ironing board amongst the period furniture and 1956 newspapers.
Luke Beard plays Jimmy Porter as a proto-rebel without a cause and the intensity he brings to the part is at times quite heartbreaking. His bullying of Alison is watched by their lodger Cliff (producer Alex Farrell) who plays the part with the detachment which is apparently his way of surviving in this domestic battleground.
As the marriage falls apart, O’Neill gives an increasingly impressive but never overplayed performance filled with repressed sadness, passion and disappointment. Watching the emotions pass over her face whilst her world is pulled apart is nothing short of tragic. Victoria Gordon (as Alison’s best friend Helena) gives an impressive version of a repressed but ultimately passionate betrayer of her friend.
As events unfold we meet one other character, Alison’s father, played as a depressed and vaguely cynical returnee from the Raj by Davut-Sebastian Atterbury and he gives a nicely charismatic performance. The unstoppable series of events are delivered with impressive conviction by this cast, particularly the incredibly impressive and remarkably mature Lauren O’Neill, definitely one to watch.
Thanks to Alex and his fine company for a marvellous interpretation of this Osborne modern classic from 1956. And on a personal note thank you to the little old lady on the row behind me who provided a running commentary and regular “I told you so”.
- Ted Heath
until 31st Jan
Comments
Got something to say?
Advertisement
Other Regional Sites