Review: SONG FROM FAR AWAY, HOME Manchester

Photo credit: Chris Payne

A revival of Simon Stephens and Mark Eitzel’s Song From Far Away is brought to the audiences of Manchester at HOME, co-produced by Thomas Hopkins, Guy Chapman, and HOME themselves.

The story features Willem (played by Will Young) as he reflects on his life in the wake of his brother Pauli’s death.  Following the news, Willem must fly across the world to return home to Amsterdam, face his estranged family and navigate the grief he feels.  In his reflection, he finds himself writing letters to Pauli, attempting to reach out to the brother he has lost.

Eitzel’s compositions beautifully complement the monologue by Stephens and creates a peaceful atmosphere with a hint of an underlying sombre tone.  There are short bursts of gentle song performed by Young throughout the play, which do feel a little lost and unnecessary at times where it seems more presentational, but there are moments that feel more naturalistic and better suited to the flow of the narrative as Willem sings in a more absent-minded manner whilst perusing the letter he has written to Pauli.  Whether this is an acting choice by Young or a creative choice from director Kirk Jameson, it works really well.

Lighting designer Jane Lalljee and designer Ingrid Hu have created a minimalistic, chic apartment onstage with a mixture of warm lighting states, modern furnishings, and a calming neutral colour scheme. 

Young’s performance as Willem is glorious; he truly takes ownership of the stage and gracefully delivers Stephens’ poetic words, never missing a beat.

Song From Far Away is a delightful production that explores one man’s grief and pulls on the heartstrings.  On the surface, it seems simple but in truth, it is a more intricate and delicate story.

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: Jess Dalloway

Song From Far Away plays at HOME Manchester until 11 March, with further information here.