Eric’s Tales of the Sea: A Submariner’s Yarn – Just The Tonic at The Caves

Eric, a veteran storyteller, began his career as a submarine sailor at the age of sixteen. As you would expect if you’ve ever read The Tale of the Ancient Mariner at school, Eric has a few tall tales to tell. Dressed in a roll-neck sweater, he looks every bit the fisherman and, indeed, he can make even battered fish interesting.

The venue is perfect for this low-key show. You walk up stark stairs, along narrow corridors and through several doors before entering a dark, dank, enclosed cavern with a curved roof. The sound effect of a deeply submerged submarine envelops you in sonar pings and silence. A screen where typed statements magically greet you sets the scene. It is intriguing.

Eric appears. A mop of curls crowning a cheeky, bearded face, Eric has a way with the audience. He is a seasoned storyteller and has a treasure trove of memories to share. He has photos too and anecdotes of how a young submariner lived and survived a long career and made enduring friendships with mates who shared his unique experience.

We learn about the dangers and the teasing and the incredible support this band of sailors under the waves in a nuclear submarine offers one another. It is funny and moving. Listed under comedy, this is one for those who want to be completely charmed into a permanent grin rather than fall about in convulsed laughter.

If you’ve been in the armed forces, you’ll completely connect, as did the former air force man with a young family, who said to Eric as we left, “That’s the best thing I’ve seen. Thank you.”

Reviewer: Kathleen Mansfield

Reviewed: 2nd August 2024

North West End UK Rating: