A Streetcar Named Desire, Northern Stage, Newcastle Review
A Streetcar Named Desire
Northern Stage, Newcastle
4-14 June 2014
Reviewed by Chris Barker
Northern Stage is well known in the region for some quirky adaptations of contemporary classic plays, and Secret Theatre’s production of Tennessee William’s ‘A Streetcar Named Desire’ fits well into this category.
The play tells the tale of Blanche, who arrives at the run down apartment of her sister and her brutal misogynist husband Stanley. As Blanche’s story of why she has left her comfortable home in Mississippi unfolds, we are led into some dark places. We meet a variety of characters each with their own flawed values. Interesting people that lack sentimentality and yet have a heart. Blanche’s mental and emotional demise can only go in one direction, and this is clear from the outset. This is the story of that journey.
In this adaptation, the stage is stark and white. Scenery and props are sparse, which puts the focus upon the actors, so they really need to get it right… and they certainly do.
Although this play is set in America’s ‘Deep South’ I was relieved not to have had to endure 2½ hours of staged ‘southern drawl’. The actors, thankfully, stuck largely to their native tongue.
The acting is first rate, and a special mention should be made of Nadia Albina’s portrayal of Blanche, whose gradually revealed damaged personality really is scarily convincing. Albina’s energy in this role was startling, and her own disability only adds to this.
The play has many light exchanges and even a couple of laugh out loud moments, but this is no comedy. It is about dark themes and serious issues. The less comfortable side of human emotions are explored in some depth, making this an intense and at times gripping ride. Again the cast work perfectly together and clearly understand how to maintain the impact of the story.
This play will not appeal to everyone. If you know what it’s about or have seen the film then you will have an idea what to expect, but that may not prepare you for the darkness of this production. Despite the wit and the comedy moments, it is not a happy story, and the audience will more than likely leave the theatre pondering the many shadowy stones that have been overturned. If you want a sunny feelgood experience with fluffy animals, this is not for you. However if you want a grown up, intense and emotional experience, I can certainly recommend this.
The play was warmly received by a virtually full house, which was made up of a mixture of A-level students, older people who perhaps enjoyed the Vivien Leigh/ Marlon Brando screen version, and a lot of other serious theatre goers of all types. Children were notable for their absence, and although Northern Stage suggest that the play is suitable for persons over 14, it is unlikely that most young people under 16 would ‘get’ the themes. There is a lot of underwear on show and a sprinkle of strong language but it’s really the dialogue that makes this a play for adults.
There was no standing ovation at the end of the show’s first night, but it was clear that the majority went home satisfied and not a little thoughtful.
Secret Theatre has performed this play to high acclaim at the Lyric Theatre in London for several months as part of a programme of four plays. This is the first time this production has left the capital, and Northern Stage is clearly proud to be the venue to host the performance.
Northern Stage is a modern theatre and arts venue, located within the Newcastle University site. This means parking may not always be straightforward but there is on street parking outside the university which is free after 6.30pm. The theatre has a licensed bar and restaurant, and there are also snacks available. Ice cream was on sale during the 15 minute interval. The theatre is fully accessible and all seats have an excellent view of the stage. My only criticism is that I found the seats rather uncomfortable on the backside after almost 3 hours in the seat, but this may just be me!
A Streetcar Named Desire will be performed on 7th, 10th 12th and 14th June.
Rating: 4.5/5
Tickets cost from £14.50 to £22.50 (concessions available).
A Streetcar Named Desire is at the Northern Stage until 14 June. For more information or to book tickets click here or call the box office on 0191 230 5151.
Northern Stage, Barras Bridge,Newcastle Upon Tyne,Tyne and Wear, NE1 7RH
