Festival Theatre, Malvern – until 2nd November 2024
Reviewed by Courie Amado Juneau
4****
Kazuo Ishiguro’s 2005 novel Never Let Me Go tonight hits Malvern Theatres with a cast of fine young actors.
The set (from Set and Costume Designer Tom Piper) was an intriguing one, with an arc of doors and windows opening up on a rather clinical looking space populated only with some chairs and a bed. Stark and perfectly fitting for the unfolding tale – set in an alternative universe where we follow a group of children growing up at a private school, aware they have a special purpose but unaware just how special they are until they leave those safe environs and venture out into the big wide world… As such, it’s part a coming of age tale and part a dystopian tale in the grand tradition of Brave New World (and the like).
There was a wealth of talent on display. The three leads had a touching rapport which made for a highly compelling and believable love triangle. Nell Barlow (as Kathy) was on stage every moment as far as I can recall and she was nothing short of sensational. Her interplay with every other actor, in every scene, was powerful and varied – she was a joy to watch. Her friends Ruth (Matilda Bailes) and Tommy (Angus Imrie) ably supported her, with both blossoming over the course of the evening as their characters arcs unfolded. All three grabbed the chance to explore the full gamut of emotions to their uttermost, and they did it with a youthful abandon and energy that did them and the work much credit!
The entire cast were magnificent and made for an impactful ensemble. Most played multiple roles, giving full scope to the limited stage time these characters had in impressive fashion. I would like to single out for special mention Susan Aderin (playing Miss Emily, head of the school). She was pitch perfect throughout especially in her truly moving performance during the reunion with the students towards the end. Emilie Patry as Madamme (and Miss Lucy) was also extremely moving with a portrayal that was all the more powerful for its beautifully crafted understatement.