Fool for Love (Kings Arms, Salford)

Fool For Love is the story of May and Eddie, two lovers who have not seen each other in a long time. The play offers a look back into an unclear past, filled with intrigue and conflict.

The feeling of a dusty and dilapidated motel is brought to life simply and effectively: housing nothing more than a bed a table and two chairs. Immediately you are thrown into the Mojave desert and don’t get a chance to look back.

The play is fast paced and gripping from the outset, the anger from Eddie (Pat Lally) and May (Emily Spowage) palpable immediately.The Old Man (Derek Milling) interjects occasionally to give his view on proceedings, separate from May and Eddie and his brief yet memorable lines give a welcome outside perspective on things and his anger towards the end of the play counters May’s passion excellently.

The changing point of conflict is the play’s most enthralling element, keeping the audience and actors on their toes.The two former lovers take it in turn to have the high ground and their back and forth arguing is a joy to watch. When Martin (Mark Roberts) stumbles unwittingly into the middle of the argument, he provides the perfect scapegoat for both Eddie and May to direct their frustration and eventually their individual tales of previous events. He begins as a challenger to Eddie but soon turns into the audience for him.

Eddie’s tale is one of pain, and Lally perfectly captures the loss and heartache he clearly feels. When the time comes for May to give her recollection of their messy and troubled past, Spowage is mesmerising. Her monologue is impassioned and heartfelt and every word is clung to as you try and make sense of the tortured past she is relaying.

Helen Parry’s version of Sam Shepard's celebrated play is as captivating as it is complex. Fool For Love twists and turns, doesn’t expect or allow you to catch up and drives on at a blistering pace. It is relentless and challenging, making for a very engaging and riveting production.

Fool For Love is at the King's Arms, Salford until 12 November.