THEATRE ROYAL, GLASGOW – UNTIL SATURDAY 29TH JUNE
REVIEWED BY SIOBHAN WILSON
5*****
I am completely in awe of how full-on the performance was and how much they managed to get into such a short space of time without making the audience feel overwhelmed by it all.
Set during the war, on a small Greek Island occupied by the Italians. There is a forbidden love blossoming between a local girl and an Italian occupying officer. The first act sets the scene impeccably ready for emotional rollercoaster of a second act. Get your tissues at the ready. The show reflects how war impacts civilians incredibly well.
The set was extremely effective, the giant sheets of metal allow for the projections to act like an additional character. From the red light of fire or blue of the Mediterranean to the Army Tank projections. You really get a feel for where you are and how you would feel.
Drosoula (Eve Polycarpou) may have a supporting role but she commands the stage whenever she enters. Yet manages to take nothing away from the main characters Pelagia (Madison Clare), Carlo (Ryan Donaldson) or Mandras (Ashley Gayle) when she is there. Whilst they manage to hold your attention and make their acting appear so natural.
Every little detail is considered including the bleets of the Goat (Louisa Guerreiro) to comedic effect and so realistic sounding, and the animalist details of Psipsina (Elizabeth Mary Williams) the pine marten.
If you appreciate the exquisite detailing and full impactful artistry of a novel brought to life then this tear jerker is the one for you.