Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham – until 29th October 2022
Reviewed by Jacqui Radford
5*****
Girl from the North Country, a double Olivier Award winning musical celebrating the music of Bob Dylan is a real treat for anybody. You don’t need to be a Dylan fan to enjoy it but if you are then you will fully appreciate how skilfully his music is woven through a plot that evokes a full range of emotions.
Set in a guesthouse in Minnesota during the depression of the 1930s, Nick and Elizabeth who own the guesthouse act as an anchor for all the troubled souls thrown together by circumstance. They also have troubles of their own.
The opening of the performance is a quiet introduction to a sombre era and its effect on all walks of life and yet as the story unfolds, interspersed with music and humour, the audience is drawn in to experience the complexities of love and relationships in all forms.
Elizabeth (played by Frances McNamee) has an energy that is brought to the role exceptionally well. Her Dementia manifests itself in uninhibited comment that pricks the conscience. Her presence and influence are reinforced by clever use of set and lighting design (Rae Smith and Mark Henderson respectively).
In many ways, despite the time that has passed since the 1930s, there are a number of themes running throughout that are likely to resonate with anybody watching the show. However, the overriding feeling by the end of the show is one of hope and faith in humanity. If you can catch this show, you won’t regret it!