Review: TOUCHING THE VOID, Bristol Old Vic (Online)
Theatre’s are back and Bristol Old Vic are certainly challenging themselves post-lockdown to continue attracting the incredible level of engagement they have obtained during the past 14 months, by continuing to distribute their work online. Following its sold-out world premiere in Bristol and critically-acclaimed West End run, Touching the Void returns for one week only for a global broadcast, live from the Bristol Old Vic.
Not only a film adaptation, Touching the Void is the real life story of Cumbria-based climber Simon and his harrowing expedition in 1985. Bristol Old Vic’s production is able to bring this story to life in spectacular style. We are transported to the freezing peaks of the Peruvian Andes, as Joe Simpson and Simon Yates’ perilous descent of Siula Grande becomes a breathtaking and desperate struggle for survival. Tragedy hits when Joe falls into a crevasse within the peaks, where he teeters on the brink of death and despair but cannot possibly climb to safety, whilst freezing winds batter Simon who is desperate to rescue his injured climbing partner who hangs from a rope below him.
There is a thrilling pace to the flow of the production that keeps you firmly locked into your harness. The play displays great transitions between being directly placed within the action, as well as being on the outside looking in. We are thrust into the intensity of mountain climbing and the passion that thrill seeking activity is able to possess. It perfectly captures the areas of vulnerability too.
The incredible multi-camera set-up and engrossing 3D soundscape enables the streamed audience to experience every little detail of the action as it unfolds. Whether that is in the intensity of the storyline, the severe emotional rollercoaster undertaken by the character or by taking in the breathtaking construction of the “peaks”, the camera angles really help to display them all. The “peaks” construction play a spectacular part in becoming the centrepiece of this story.
The four characters in the production (Fiona Hampton, Patrick McNamee, Josh Williams, and Angus Yellowlees) are able to transport their audience on an epic journey with their portrayal of these real life people. Their ability to draw you in on all of the details is inspiring. It is thoroughly enjoyable how each individual is able to capture every heartbeat of this story.
So whether you want to get back into the seats at the theatre or still need the safety of your home right now, Bristol Old Vic are doing a superb job in making their work available. It’s an exciting adventure for this theatre post-pandemic that will most certainly be worth the ride! Epic, intense but with added empathy and understanding of the real story that unfolded.
***** Five stars
Reviewed by: Emmie Newitt
Touching the Void will be broadcast live nightly until 29 May at 8pm BST, before being made available on demand from 2-8 June for a 24 hour rental. To book tickets, please click here.
This review is also available over on Carpe Diem Emmie.
