Review: The Night Ali Died, theSpace on the Mile

The Night Ali Died takes place in a small room in a hotel on the Royal Mile. Written and performed by Christopher Sainton-Clark, this sixty-minute play sees him take on every character in the story. The traverse stage set-up provides a simple yet effective backdrop, with very few props needed. A black screen with clothes pegs allows Sainton-Clark to switch characters effortlessly, changing his jacket to signal each new persona. These transitions are supported by well-produced audio, which introduces each new character and gives insight into their role in the unfolding story.

This is a dark play, described as a thriller, which tells the story of Ali, a young man who has settled for a life that doesn’t fulfil him. He appears either unwilling or unable to change, until a discovery leads to a single decision that turns his world upside down. As the story progresses, we are given a glimpse into Ali’s world and the choices that have led him to this point.

Told through many different voices, including a detective, a mob boss and a criminal, Sainton-Clark demonstrates impressive versatility. He switches between characters and personas with ease, creating clearly defined individuals without the need for elaborate costumes or scenery. His performance is slick and controlled, allowing the story to remain at the centre of the production.

Despite its dark themes, there is a heartwarming juxtaposition in Ali’s relationship with his young daughter. These glimpses of their relationship provide a much-needed tenderness amid the darker elements of the story. Towards the end of the play, a particularly touching moment reveals a more vulnerable side to Ali and adds another layer to his character. It is a moment that could perhaps have been given more space.

The script is one of the production’s strengths. It explores ambition, responsibility and the question of how big, or small, individual lives can be. There is a constant tension between settling for the life Ali has and finding the courage to pursue something more meaningful. One line that particularly catches my attention is when Ali describes not being allowed to leave his home as being ‘no different to my usual life’. An observation that says a great deal about his world before the event that triggered his current situation.

I watched The Night Ali Died after a day of stand-up comedy and found its darker themes a welcome change. It’s a polished and compelling piece of theatre, with a strong script and a confident central performance.

At its heart, this is a play about making your life mean something and finding the courage to leave your mark on the world.

Directed by Rosanna Mallinson
Written by Christopher Sainton-Clark

The Night Ali Died plays at theSpace on the Mile until Saturday 29 August as part of EdFringe.