Lovesong

Red Stitch Actors’ Theatre’s version of Welsh playwright Abi Morgan’s perceptive and deeply moving play Lovesong is wonderfully cast, perfectly paced, and beautifully produced.

This seamless production contrasts the early relationship of youthful couple Margaret (Maddy Jevic) and William (Dylan Watson) with the durable relationship of their dotage - when they refer to each other as Maggie (Jillian Murray) and Billy (Paul English).  The melding and intersections of the two eras works remarkably well.  I am surprised to realize that I don’t remember seeing a similar conceit used in a production of a play - though surely there are a number?

One gets a sense that rehearsal time has been extensive and especially well used and this is testament to a very capable director Denny Lawrence.  Nothing is out of place or superfluous.

The set by Adrienne Chisholm is of necessity economical and works well to support for fluid movement of the actors.

There is an emphasis on tricky issues that surfaced in the early relationship.   The sadnesses and disappointments. This brings gravitas to the longevity of the marriage and makes the overall story more moving.

John English commences proceedings as Billy, talking as a dentist about teeth.  In this way his character is superbly established and defined.  The husband and wife relationship between his character and Jillian Murray’s Maggie is wholly believable.  She conveys a very convincing stoic old womanly character.

Maddy Jevic as Margaret and Dylan Watson as William relate to each other with contrasting, enthusiastic youthful aplomb.  However they are no less convincing than their older counterparts in conveying a rich complex and believable relationship. 

There are times of reminiscence, of the older characters, where we become aware of some of their blighted expectations.  This is particularly poignant.

Campbell Banks’ Cello accompaniment of often touching music by Gemma Turvey, as well as percussive effects, does much to enhance the whole.

Lovesongis another very classy and highly recommended production from Red Stitch. Take a hanky.

Suzanne Sandow

Credits

Composer - Gemma Turvey

Set and Costume Design – Adrienne Chisholm

Lighting Design – Clare Springett

Dialect Coach – Jean Goodwin

Cellist – Campbell Banks

Cast:

Billy – Paul English

Maggie – Jillian Murray

Margaret – Maddy Jevic

William – Dylan Watson

Photographer: Teresa Noble