Richmond Theatre – until Saturday 5th October 2024
Reviewed by Carly Burlinge
5*****
Richmond Theatre brings you the stage version of Birdsong by Rachael Wagstaff, based on the novel written by Sebastian Faulks, celebrating its 30th anniversary.
It tells the story of Stephen Wraysford (James Esler) a young Englishman sent to Amiens France by his Guardian, Pre-World War I, to visit a local factory run by Rene Azaire (Sargon Yelda) to study their methods. Whilst there he stays with the Azaire Family in their home and finds himself falling in love with Isabelle Azaire (Charlie Russell); the unhappy wife of Rene. Stephen and Isabelle embark on a passionate love affair and are ultimately discovered, which makes them flee to be together.
We next meet Stephen engulfed in the horrors of the trenches. Where he’s a changed man, bitter, cynical and no longer full of the hope of youth. During this time, we learn about how his relationship with Isabelle played out, and see the effect that his encounters with fellow soldiers, often as their lieutenant, has on him, especially when dealing with their loss. Stephen strikes up an unlikely friendship with a sapper, Jack Firebrace (Max Bowden), who is working on tunnels deep beneath no-man’s land with his team to lay explosive charges to take out the enemy. Firebrace’s personality is the polar opposite to Stephen’s; a lovable, jack the lad performer, with a large heart, that has also been broken.
James Esler gave an outstanding performance as Stephen Wraysford, wonderfully showing the audience every nuance of his character, from the highs of love and hope to the lows of despair. His performance was complimented and enhanced by the compelling, on-stage connection with Charlie Russell, making their relationship believable and real to the audience. As a professional stage debut for James Esler, this production is a fantastic showcase for his talent. A special mention must go to Brennan (James Findlay) for his inspiring and haunting performance of the folk song “Ned of the Hill”, which was evocative and spine tingling.
The sound effects used created such an atmosphere that transported the audience into the horrific reality of trench life in a dramatic and believable way. The set and props were simple, but effective, enhancing the performance rather than detracting from it. The influence of choreography on the scene changes was subtle and yet impressive, with the attention to detail in the prop placement within the house scenes reminiscent of silver service at a dinner table.
This show draws upon raw emotion in all respects, captivating the audience throughout, with some very dramatic scenes, which kept the audience at the edge of their seats. There was laughter and tears, all from such great talent and a strong connection from all of the actors involved – they were just superb. This is by far one of the best shows I have ever seen, which ended with a standing ovation. What a compelling performance.