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By
Rosie Hetherington
This
is a thrilling night of drama, which should not be missed. “Romeo
and Juliet” it ain’t but first love is always deadly serious. Be
warned the subjects of schizophrenia, domestic violence, modern
love and alcoholism in the underbelly of society are difficult to
portray without an X certificate.
Freefall
Productions present “Some Voices “ by Joe Penhall, a gripping observation
of “Care” in the community of Hammersmith. “Ray” is a nobody turned
hero, facing larger than life odds he cannot be expected to win
alone. It’s rude to point, so decide for yourselves who is really
crazy. We can all have “episodes” of madness so maybe it depends
on who’s watching.
A deserved
winner of the Oxford Drama Award for Best Actor Gethin Anthony obviously
has a great future ahead of him. Previously seen two years ago at
the BT, he again embodies “Ray” with a childish innocence and realistic
descent into madness. His struggles to cope with what life throws
in his way are the heart of the play.
Another
outstanding performance by Peter Munroe is “Ives”, the long-term
mental patient who befriends “Ray”. His expressions and mannerisms
transforming this young student to an “Ancient Mariner” warning
of disaster.
Rick
Merrick as “Pete” provides emotional and explosive outbursts of
frustration at his lot in life. He is the stressed out chef forced
to care for a brother he hardly knows. With the endless forms and
rules beginning to destroy his own sanity.
Fiona
Ryan gives a convincing portrayal as “Laura” ably assisted by Jack
Hawkins as the angry “Dave” They are the modern couple struggling
with an intensity against their feelings of love and independence.
Should they stay or should they go?
The
views expressed in these comments are those of the contributor's
and not the BBC.
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