Renowned as a theatrical landmark, John Osborne’s 1956 play changed the face of British theatre forever with its gritty realism. For such an important play it is surprisingly infrequently performed. I have only seen it once before and had forgotten what a powerful piece of drama it is. Staged at the Almeida Theatre in repertory with ‘Roots’, Arnold Wesker’s renowned play of the same era, it forms what they have titled ‘Angry and Young’ season.
The most striking thing about director Atri Banerjee’s production is the dispensing of a realistic set, which was one of the hallmarks of the original production and presenting it on a bare circular stage with an outer ring revolve and an inner ring lift. The lift was used for raising the few pieces of set furniture that were needed, a table and the infamous ironing board. All other props were simply placed on a low wall at the back of the revolve. This was an excellent choice. It prevented the play having a dated feel and it focused the action on the excellent cast and the brilliantly written script. The staging did have some idiosyncrasies: having the almost reconciled pair disappear down the central lift at the end was theatricality taken rather too far, and I failed to understand the symbolism of the falling rain effect during the last scene.
Although we have now, almost 70 years on, become very used to dysfunctional domestic dramas on the stage and on our screens, this production still had the ability to shock. The misogynistic attitude and frankly, cruelty of Jimmy Porter to his wife was uncomfortable to watch. Although it was expressed in ways which would not be resonant to many in a modern audience, it was not difficult to make the connection to the all too frequent accounts of domestic violence which are still prevalent today.
Billy Howie gave a very strong performance as the disaffected Jimmy Porter. Witty and sarcastic, his underlying vulnerability came through, particularly in his account of his experience as a child watching his father die. He was well matched by Ellora Torchia’s portrayal of his long-suffering wife. I particularly liked Iwan Davies’ controlled performance as the friend, housemate and co-worker Cliff, who attempts to create a space of calm and safety between the warring marital pair. The scenes between him and Torchia were very touching.
I would urge you to see this production, not just as a piece of theatrical history, but as a very fine piece of dramatic writing presented in an innovative and gripping way.
Reviewer: Paul Ackroyd
Reviewed: 1st October 2024
North West End UK Rating: