Yvonne Arnaud – until 18th November 2023
Reviewed By Rebecca Salveson
5*****
Everyone, needs to see this play. If it is the only theatre experience you have this year this must be it. Based on the film by Ken Loach of the same name the message that is portrayed is as relevant now as it was in 2016 if not even more so.
Set in the north east of England the story tells the tale of a carpenter, Daniel Blake played by David Nellist who having suffered a heart attack finds himself in the most impossible situation. His Dr deems that he is not fit to work however he doesn’t have the resources to simply ‘take it easy’ so for the first time in his life Daniel turns to the benefit system for support. However, the benefit system is not easily navigated, and he is met by unsympathetic staff and red tape which shows Daniel slowly moving further into poverty.
This story shows how life is when you find yourself at the bottom of the social pile. We see compassion and heroism and is an accurate reflection of how thousand of people living in poverty’s problems are made worse instead of eased by a bureaucratic benefits system.
As we follow Daniels story we are also introduced to Katie played by Bryony Corrigan and her daughter Daisy (Jodie Wild). Katie is a single mum who has been relocated to the area from London. Previous to this ‘managed move’ Katie and Daisy have been living in hostels. As the story unfolds, we learn more about how Katie finds herself in difficult circumstances, reliant on foodbanks and even turning to prostitution to put food on the table. From the moment the pair arrive they are at an immediate disadvantage, Not knowing the area or bus routes they turn up late to the job centre where they are immediately hit with a sanction for being late preventing Kate from accessing any funds for a month! Kate is desperate with only £10 in her purse begs for support but is knocked back. Daniel too has been at the job centre meeting equally frustrating obstacles and the three form an alliance. Bonded by their situations, shared experiences and determination to try and make the best of things the unlikely trio provide each other with care, support and a sense of comradely against a system that seems to want them to fail.
Throughout the play we hear and see statements from leading politicians Each statement is a direct quote and each one clearly states that the welfare state works for people ‘like these’ and that their policies are making a difference. We realise that in fact more people rely on foodbanks than ever before, we have lost trade unions and inequality is worse with thousands living in poverty.
The play engages the audience from the start, although the subject is dark and thought provoking it is relevant and relatable. The relationship between Daniel, Katie and Daisy is authentic and believable. We see their relationship change over time as Daniel is desperate to help and Katie pushes back not wanting to accept charity and having never been able to rely on anyone but herself in the past. The three main characters are supported by a trio of excellent actors who play various other characters throughout the play. Kema Sikazwe (China), Janine Leigh (Sheila) and Nicky Cocharane (Harry Edwards/ floor manager) each one brings authenticity, emotion and depth to what proves to be a superb theatrical experience.
The audience was left with a sense of shock and dismay with the whole audience giving a standing ovation. There was hardly a dry eye in the house!