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An expressionist revisiting of the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, filled with philosophical questions and ultimately love.Summary
Rating
OK
The Ending by Tom Sparrow offers a diverse theatrical experience encompassing not only the main 45-minute piece, but also showcasing additional works by talented emerging artists. Among these, Alison Zrada‘s stand-up piece What Do You Do With a Degree in Classics? provides a delightful and humorous prelude. Zrada’s smart comedic timing and command of the stage turns what could be a dry subject into an enjoyable and deadpan performance, displaying an adept ability to find humour in subtle places.
The transition from the warm-up to the main show seamlessly leads us into the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. For those less familiar with the classics, the play adeptly introduces the tale of Orpheus, who, after a series of trials, attempts to bring his deceased wife Eurydice back from the underworld to the land of the living. The storytelling, narrated by Eurydice (Megan Basnett), creates a fairy tale ambiance, enhanced by enchanting lighting design from Ross Peters.
The initial interactions between Eurydice and Orpheus(Tom Sparrow) carry a playful tone, with moments of comic relief skilfully executed by Sparrow. His portrayal of Orpheus is marked by gravitas, complicity, and pathos, reinforcing the captivating dynamic between the characters. The overarching question of whether there is a resolution in the end and possibility of their reunion adds an engaging layer of suspense.
The production utilises jump cuts and blackouts to explore different stages of the relationship, providing glimpses into what appears to be Orpheus’s purgatory in the pursuit of an afterlife. The exceptional lighting design, which draws inspiration from painting techniques like chiaroscuro, effectively plays with shadows and light, creating a visually captivating experience.
While the play excels in its poetic approach to the romantic narrative, some areas could benefit from refinement. The dialogue, at times, feels clunky and repetitive, impacting the overall flow of the performance. Additionally, the uneven quality of some performances detracts from the cohesiveness of the production.
A possible avenue for improvement lies in rethinking the character arcs to add more depth and nuance. Currently, Eurydice feels more like a character serving Orpheus’s narrative rather than embodying an individual with her own needs and desires. Despite these considerations The Ending successfully captures the essence of a gripping love story through its poetic elements and effective lighting design. With some adjustments to dialogue and character development, the production has the potential to resonate more deeply with its audience, unlocking the heart and pulse of the narrative.
Written by Tom Sparrow
Produced by Periphery Theatre
Directed and Designed by Alice Robb
Dramaturgy by Jessica Rose Saunders
The Ending plays at Cockpit Theatre until Friday 26 January.
Further information and bookings can be found here.
