Richmond Theatre – until 14 March 2020
Reviewed by Carly Burlinge
4.5****
Kite Runner is based on the best-selling novel by Khaled Hosseini Adapted by Matthew Spangler and directed by Giles Croft .
Kite Runner is the story of Amir (David Ahmad) an Afghanistan boy as he narrates his story as well as taking part through the chapters of his life. The story starts with him as a child and his beautiful relationship with his best friend Hassan (Andrei Costin) although best friends, Hassan and his Father Ali (Tiran Aakel) are servants to Amir’s father Baba (Dean Rehman). They have worked for his fathers family for over 40 years and are very loyal towards them. Even though the boys are best friends their life styles couldn’t be more different!. Amir who lives in the family home with his father Baba who is a wealthy businessman, can be quite stern and comes across as a mans man and owns a beautiful large and exquisite house in Kabul. Whereas Hassans Father Ali is a poor Hazara, comes across as gentle and uncomplaining and grateful for the position he is in.
The two boys continue to develop a beautiful friendship even though their experiences in life are so very different. They enjoy many things together such as movies and books and make-believe play. As well as flying kites on the hills of Afghanistan. The connection between the boys on stage was very realistic Hassan played the part as a child exceptionally well, was very energetic and showed true emotion throughout his acting. Amir also gave an outstanding performance whilst narrating his story which at time were fun as well as many difficult memories showing affection, despair and empathy. What a fantastic bond they had between them showing the audience just how deep their relationship was meant to be, bringing the story alive.
Although as the story develops and things take place, their bond suddenly changes in a instant, when an awful horrific act takes place. In that one moment, that one choice and that one reaction, changing their friendship and both boys lives forever.
Something that Amir and his choices, will regret for the rest of his life and something that will have big consequences on them all. Will he be able to come to terms with his past will it stay with him forever or will he be given another chance in order to changes things?
“For you a thousand times over”
The acting was just superb throughout giving it a real sense of meaning. You could tell there was a great connection with all in the show. The props and background were simple, but very effective of an Afghanistan skyline that later changes into San-Francisco . The sounds were fascinating and played on stage by musician Hanif Khan playing the Tabla and Tibetan singing bowls making it very authentic and matched very well with the show making this a great production to watch.
Kite Runner is a heart gripping, compelling play with so much emotion, love, hurt, loyalty, disappointment pride and anger as well as forgiveness!