Brief Encounter at Royal Exchange Theatre Manchester Review
Photo Credit Johan Persson
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Maggie B
The Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester’s winter play this year is Noel Coward’s Brief Encounter adapted from the 1940’s film version for stage by Emma Rice.
This modern theatre in-the-round is situated within the Victorian Cotton Exchange building, its industrial contemporary style contrasting with the marble columns and glass domes of the original building. Dressed for Christmas it is a delight to simply enter the building; a restaurant and bar are available.
There are only three levels of seating within the theatre and all seats afford an excellent view of the relatively small circular stage which challenges the directors to be imaginative with their productions.
This musical Christmas production coincides with the 50th anniversary of Noel Coward’s death; a romantically charged version of the much loved film and similarly set in London in the post WW1 years. The romanticism of the era with its hopes and aspirations, yet strict Victorian moral compass envelops the whole story from the casual meeting between the 2 main characters through to the inevitable conclusion of their love affair.
The stage sets varied little throughout the play, initially opening in a buffet restaurant at the train station. Later the spotlight on a green comfy chair transports the viewer to a suburban household, then a huge chandelier transforms the set into a posh restaurant. Simple but effective.
The presence of a live 3 piece band at the side of the stage is a bonus as the music helps create the atmosphere and mood of the play. The pianist is in fact an integral part of the play as would be found in a restaurant in that era.
This well known story revolves around a bored suburban housewife Laura (played by Hannah Azuonye) casually meeting with a local doctor Alec (Baker Mukasa). Both married with children and aware of the danger of allowing their liaison to progress they become caught up in a powerful and passionate relationship which challenges their moral compasses and behaviours.
The audience are carried along this journey with an increasing sense of inevitability. The drama is heartfelt and poignant and equally applicable to a contemporary doomed love affair today.
Running alongside this main theme are 2 other love stories between station and cafe workers. During the first half of the play I felt they provided not only a light relief from the main story but gave the production much more life and interest.
The second half however picked up speed with the songs and dance arrangements much more animated and colourful. All of the cast are incredibly talented singing dancing and some playing instruments as well. A shout out to Christina Modestou who played Myrtle (and a few other characters) for her powerful presence and astounding voice; I felt she stole the show. Ida Regan also delighted us with her singing.
I was disappointed to see that our main character Laura didn’t appear to enjoy her illicit love affair very much, appearing anxious and doubtful throughout; consequently the relationship was not as passionate as I would have liked.
Overall I think this is another Royal Exchange production not to be missed.
Tickets are from £12
Accessibility includes a lift into the building, BSL performances and audio described performances.
Recommended for over 12’s only.
Rating: 4:5
https://www.royalexchange.co.uk/event/brief-encounter/