Malion – theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall

The play was a sensational mix of modern and ancient theatre, transcending time and language that connects modern audiences and Greek theatre buffs alike. Speeches of Gods and Goddesses were spoken in verse. The use of verse displayed the play’s connections to traditional Greek theater. However, this was broken up with modern conversations and ideas that the everyday viewer could understand and connect with in one way or another. This in turn made the play more accessible to a wider audience.

Created by Tired Horses Theatre, written by Joseph Meardon, directed by Mikael Phillips and assistant directed by Hannah MacMillan. The stage was transformed into an art studio that looked like it belonged in today’s society just as much as an ancient one. The play seemed to be along the lines of Satyr.

Following the conventions of Satyr the play is based on the Greek myth of the statue of Galatea that comes to life. Through Galatea portrayed by Rachael Campbell we are introduced to more serious topics of love, lust, and a woman’s purpose. However, Galatea’s innocent views on these matters are countered by the chorus played by Ben Kay and Jordan Monks.

Galatea is a statue created by Malion (played by Joseph Meardon). Malion is so captured by his creation that he wishes Galatea were brought to life. Meardon, through his voice and physicality shows Malion’s desperation and innocent intent. Meanwhile, both the chorus and Galatea try to convince Malion to their way of thinking.

Once Galatea comes to life Campbell portrays her with a childlike innocence and an infectious joy. This contrasts Monks’ and Kay’s characters that despite their jesting attitudes display sinister intention. Monks and Kay as the chorus through their change in attire and speech their cloaks change to jeans and the verse, they speak in turns to more subtle rhyme. Guide the audience away from the ancient myth where Aphrodite (who is voiced by Kit Laveri) gifts Malion Galatea into the modern era where women are viewed as sexual objects. Meardon throughout the play shows a continuous battle with his own views on love and the pressure to embrace the views presented through the chorus. The actors had great chemistry that displayed the complicated dynamics of the relationships characters had with each other.

Reviewer: Marcelina Kruczynska

Reviewed: 14^th August 2024

North West End UK Rating: