Jack Studio Theatre – until 17 July 2021
4****
Reviewed by Claire Roderick
Joel Horwood’s intriguing play about a day in an ordinary English village is the first inhouse production from the Jack Studio Theatre after reopening. And the team has not lost their magic touch.
Brigid Lohrey and Grace Cookey-Gam play all the villagers expertly and engagingly – an aging farmer with a daughter who has no interest in taking on the land, a useless but kind-hearted village policeman, an overbearing village councillor, a loner living in the woods, a vicar and his teacher wife, and the local children who are burdened by family reputation. After an introduction to the characters and locations the episodic story begins.
When Bea Lewis, living alone on her farm, and terrified of developing dementia like her own mother, is adamant that she’s seen a wolf rumours and panic begin to build around the village. The usual uncertainties and fear of each character become increasingly amplified until Harry, the village policeman calls a muster in the village hall. Unfortunately, his great plan is to lock themselves in and see what happens.
The characters are all basic stereotypes and are even named and grouped in their stories alphabetically, emphasising the difference between recognisable civilisation and wildness. Their reactions and who they blame for the presence of the wolves could be applied to any event that threatens a community and shines a light on the less evolved aspects of human nature. The play loops around to explain some of the sounds that are heard around the village, and this structure evokes memories of listening to stories around a campfire. Kate Bannister’s intuitive direction, Karl Swinyard’s set, Philip Matejtshuk’s sound and Robbie Butler’s lighting and video work wonders to create a mystical atmosphere that captures the ever changing beauty and threat of nature.