Afterplay (Studio)

Sheffield Theatres' Brian Friel Season opens with Afterplay: the most recent of the three works they are showing. It is an irresistible premise: Uncle Vanya's Sonya and Andrey from Three Sisters, now middle-aged, meet by chance in a Moscow café.

They discuss what has become of their families, their lost and unrequited loves, and their thwarted but resilient lives. This is a play for anyone who ever carried on their own stories because they were so sad when the book ended.

Niamh Cusack is sublime as Sonya. She has the perfect balance of control and intensity for Friel's Chekhovian creation. Sean Gallagher's subtle and touching handling of Andrey's comedy and pathos is equally impressive.

Together, the two hold the stage with absolute precision from start to finish; evidence also of Roisin McBrinn's fine direction. Paul Wills‘ atmospheric design excites the imagination before the play has even begun, and is masterfully lit by Paul Keogan.

At just 50 minutes long, the play leaves one wishing there was more, but better to remain hungry than be force-fed… and there's plenty more Friel to come.

Afterplay continues at the Studio Sheffield, until 1 March.