Review: THE PROMISE, Birmingham Rep - Deafinitely Theatre (Tour)
Photo credit: Becky Bailey
A devastatingly raw reflection of the injustices in society, The Promise breaks the hearts of each audience member with the tragedy of Rita Gardiner. Stunning and poetic, this show is an inclusive masterpiece of visual theatre.
Jake (James Boyle) returns to the UK following his father’s death, seeing his mother, Rita, played by Anna Seymour, for the first time since she broke her promise. Seeing the deterioration of his mother’s health, Jake attempts to find her respite with the assistance of childhood friend Jane (Erin Hutching). The man faces frustrations, struggles with patience and a yearning to understand as the woman he once knew as his mother disappears in front of him.
From her opening Shakespearean recital of “Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day”, Anna Seymour’s portrayal of Rita is breath-taking. Her poetic charm and ability to translate her language into a fluid connection to the spectator fits her perfectly to the role she plays. The solo moments she performs are owned with grace and a certain fragility whilst the scenes that Seymour shares are powerful enough to remain as memories. Seymour’s rendition leaves a lasting impression, right through to the character’s demise.
The Promise is a visual wonderland and the technical elements are each as important as the individual performers. The work of lighting designer, Holly Ellis, and video designers, Ben Glover and Douglas Baker, collaborates brilliantly, with each intricate video visual corresponding with a certain lighting cue, creating an atmosphere of sensorial stimulation at each poignant moment. Marie Zchommler’s sound design and composition should also not go without mention: her permanent soundscape helps to underscore and set the tone for the piece, allowing the audience to experience the journey as the events unfold.
The Promise shows the tragedy of the British care system for people with additional needs. Poetic, sensitive and fragile, this is a piece that will leave a lasting impact for a long while.
***** Five stars
Reviewed by: Harley Keasey
The Promise plays at the Birmingham Rep until 13 April before touring. For more info, please click here.