Review: THE OCEAN AT THE END OF THE LANE, The Lowry - Tour

Photo credit: Brinkhoff-Moegenburg

The Ocean At The End Of The Lane made its debut at the National Theatre London in 2019, having been adapted from the novel written by Neil Gaiman. It then transferred to the West End winning a prestigious Oliver Award in 2020 and being nominated for a further two awards. The play is embarking on a UK tour opening at The Lowry in Salford.

The story is set between 1983 and the present day where an unnamed character returns to his childhood area for a funeral. Whilst in the area, in which he grew up in, he revisits and remembers forgotten memories from the past, now played by the character ‘Boy’ (Keir Ogilvy). He recalls how at the age of eleven he met a girl named ‘Lettie’ (Millie Hikasa) and they embarked on a mystical, magical adventure trying to ‘bind’ a monster from invading their world with terrible consequences.

Fly Davis’ set design for the show is immediately impactful as you enter the theatre. The stage is adorned with branches and twigs which represent the lane and is a constant throughout the play. Whilst the set looks minimalist at first glance, the way in which the story moves forward allows the actors a vast amount of space to convey the magic surrounding the ocean. When the story moves to Mrs Hempstock’s house, we have items lowered from above the stage and the ensemble cast, who are wearing all black, manoeuvre items using clever and intricate movement by ‘coming out of the darkness.’ Ensemble actors are also responsible for portraying magic such as ‘levitating’ in which they are visibly on stage but somehow does not take away from the believability.

Paule Constable’s lighting and Ian Dickinson’s sound design take centre stage in this magnificent piece of theatre. The Oliver award-winning lighting has us gripped and explores the many realms using harsh, striking colour palettes such as at the arrival of the ‘Flea’ whilst the loud rumbling is felt throughout the audience. Softer blue and white lighting, whilst in the ocean, transports the audience to this underwater world where puppetry conveys the message of friendship and happiness whilst silk travels over our heads immersing us further in this gripping show. Jamie Harrison’s illusions, magic and special effects are stunning additions and further enhance the spectacle panning out before our eyes.

The cast that has been assembled for the touring production are enchanting. Keir Ogilvy’s portrayal of ‘Boy’ is so believable that we almost forgot it was an adult portraying a young boy. The movement, excitement and awe that Ogilvy displays really sets the tone for the story that unfolds. Lettie Hempstock, played by Millie Hikasa, guides her friend through the supernatural world and helps to explores the themes of death, self-identity and imagination. Charlie Brooks shines in her role as Ursula, initially seeming sweet and innocent before we discover a more dark and sinister side to the character. She plays this role with ease and impresses during a magical sequence involving revolving doors. The stage craft and magic during this scene really is a highlight of the show.

This piece of theatre is a spectacle to behold. It’s hard to believe that the amount of magic on stage is being done, both literally and figuratively right before our very eyes. Audiences feel immersed and feel a connection to the story and characters.

A theatrical wonder that truly has to be seen to be believed.

***** Five stars

Reviewed by: Jordan Potts

The Ocean at the End of the Lane plays at The Lowry until 8 January before continuing its tour. Tickets for select touring venues are available here.