This darkly atmospheric drama keeps up the suspense as threats from both the human world and beyond are revealed.Rating
Good!
This interpretation of H.P. Lovecraft’s From Beyond, adapted and directed by Caleb O’Brien, immediately showcases the unnerving supernatural atmosphere of the original short story. Whilst ethereal music and otherworldly voices whisper, a mysterious figure stands seemingly frozen in time with his back to us, and two featureless creatures observe the audience taking their seats as
Set in 1920, scientist Crawford Tillinghast (O’Brien) is becoming increasingly isolated and erratic as he locks himself away in this dilapidated laboratory, to the dismay of his friend Robert Clark (Luke Martin). Tillinghast has dedicated himself to the completion of a machine that will allow people to perceive another layer of reality overlapping ours, which turns out to be full of horrors beyond understanding. As the two friends debate the wisdom and implications of using the machine, they are intensely observed by The Butler (Patrick Burley-Brown), whose behaviour becomes increasingly unstable and gleefully manipulative as he pits the friends against each other. As the influence from beyond seems to grow stronger, which side of reality is truly in control?
O’Brien’s script deftly balances the two elements of the story. The emotional human drama establishes the bond between the two friends and the arising conflict between them, whilst the mystery of the world of the beyond is gradually established before it is fully unleashed. The psychological battle between the three characters is just as compelling as the emerging battle with the supernatural beyond. The trio’s central behaviour represents the different stages of their exposure to the beyond and its effects. Clark is fully rational as he first encounters the influence. Tillinghast appears outwardly composed but reveals himself to be more irrational, whilst The Butler uses his outwardly disturbed persona to hide a cunning nature. The cast compellingly brings to life both their rational and distressed behaviours, especially when outside forces are exerting their control.
The set design firmly establishes the unsettling atmosphere of the laboratory, complete with period-appropriate props, and the dust sheets over the walls and table are clearly concealing secrets to be revealed. The 1920s setting is effectively established through the costumes and facial hair. To portray the creatures from beyond, the cast creatively wear utterly featureless white cloth face masks, distorting their faces beneath and hiding all signs of emotion. It is a disconcerting sight as they hold themselves unnaturally still, glide across the stage or are drawn into a silent dance.
Harry Slater’s creative lighting design effectively creates both worlds. Spotlights distinguish flashbacks to happier days, whilst the stage darkens to reflect the danger as Tillinghast impassionedly describes his reckless experiments. The glimpses into the beyond are conveyed with unnatural red lights bathing the stage and casting sinister shadows. The sinister music only adds to the sense of the emerging horror as they try to resist the lure of the unexplained.
This production effectively builds mystery, and the interactions between human and otherworldly friends and adversaries are absorbing. Also, very in keeping with the spirit of Lovecraft, when the story ends and the lights come up, the Butler has one final trick to play.
Based on the short story by H.P. Lovecraft
Adapted & Directed by Caleb O’Brien
Assistant Directors: Luke Martin & Patrick Burley-Brown
Produced by Luke Martin
Choreography by Ellie Councell
Lighting Design by: Harry Slater
Presented by: dEFAULT THEATRE
From Beyond has completed its run as part of Grimfest 2025
