Review: Bones in the Desert, Half Moon Theatre

When we think about seeing Theatre for Young Audiences, it’s rare that the topic of the Armenian genocide arises as an option. Here at Half Moon Theatre, however, Bones in the Desert bravely focuses on just that, examining the impact of inherited trauma, themes of identity and belonging, the horrors of war, and how history can repeat itself.

Written by British-Armenian playwright Joe Nerssessian, it follows the story of Artur, a young refugee from Armenia who, at the age of only 22, finds himself alone in Berlin, suffering the distress of loneliness, loss, and emigration.

The audience are positioned immersively, alongside caging or amongst items of furniture defining locations, with the minimal set (designed by director Chris Elwell) reflecting the sparseness of Artur’s existence. Spectators are occasionally nudged from their secure seating to allow performers to stand or sit on blocks, the characters insistent on our sharing space in their narrative. On occasion, people are handed props or asked to participate with small tasks, further bonding them with the realities of the tale.

Dara Anklesaria as Artur is entirely captivating, with an intense and heartfelt delivery that discloses the aching soul of a traumatised young man. As he gazes fiercely into the eyes of audience members, we’re challenged to really look at him and actively listen to his story. It’s a tale that crosses time and a desert littered in the bones of those who died during torturous death marches, enforced by the Ottoman Empire a century ago, which killed around one million Armenians. Adam Seridji supports him as Hagop, a watchful ancestor who connects Artur with his bloodline. He maintains a reassuringly gentle demeanour, even as his story depicts the chillingly detailed terrors of the past.

Nerssessian’s writing is powerful and meticulous, at times poetic and gorgeously evocative, yet on occasion brutally descriptive. It’s supplemented perfectly by Nick Powell’s eloquent soundtrack, giving rich depth to the memory enacted. Nerssessian weaves ideas of family, memories, and facts with magical realism. He interleaves understandings of history and the present being connected, and importantly reveals how we are impacted by what we know of the past. Aimed at ages 13+, the play pulls no punches in describing painful scenarios, including graphic murder. Sharing this intimate space, the personal impact of these events becomes palpable for the audience, and the production encourages compassion for and empathy with those affected in similar scenarios.

On press night there were no teenagers present, so it’s difficult to assess how the show would be received by its intended audience. It is, however, very intense. Many of the audience standing static throughout don’t benefit from encountering the personal details within the design that add to the human story, such as photographs and a corner full of props. A touch more light relief in the performance would also help carry the demanding experience through its full 70 minutes more comfortably. There’s space here to celebrate moments from the cultures described – perhaps through dance or song – to give substance to the ways of life maintained in a diaspora, and allow for more back and forth between the characters, breaking up the lengthy monologue. Additionally, some visual description of the geographical locations might prove useful to anyone unfamiliar with the areas, explaining the enormity of Artur’s family’s flight.

There’s lots to wrap your head round here and the post-show Q&A is welcomed. Bones in the Desert certainly has plenty to say on important topics: it’s a brilliant opportunity for a young audience to delve more deeply into the difficult issues raised, in the safe space of a theatre. You can read more about the show in our recent interview with Joe Nesserssian. 

Writer: Joe Nerssessian
Director and Designer: Chris Elwell
Composer and Sound Designer: Nick Powell
Lighting Designer: Claire Childs
Technical Stage Manager: Emily Smith
Producer: Bradley Travis
Production Manager: Emily Walls
Scenic Artist: Owain Nicholls

Bones in the Desert is aimed at ages 13+, including adults, and plays at Half Moon Theatre until Tuesday 17 November before touring.