Nevernatal written by Freya Magee and directed by Charlotte Cattrall in an unusual blend of comedy, baby showers and environmentally conscience thoughts, there’s bound to be something for everyone. In this quick and witty performance even, the toughest critic is bound to crack a laugh. The play has taken a journey from Melbourne to London and finally landing at the Edinburgh Fringe. In a satirical way the play openly discusses topics that would resonate with many women in today’s society. Magee’s play achieves to show the pressure women face in relation to settling down and starting a family. As well as the sacrifices women have to make like whether to settle down or stay career orientated.
The performance stars five different characters Catherine (played by Jadene Renée Prospere), Isabelle (played by Charlotte Cattrall), Georgina (played by Candice Price), Maggie (played by Lucy Renton), and Willow (played by Flora Ogilvy). Each of these characters come from different walks of life and are now placed together in the setting of a baby shower. The baby shower setting is quick to decipher due to the lavish design, soft pink lighting and elevated staging which makes the action clear and visible.
The play starts by throwing us straight into the action and quickly we meet Prospere’s and Cattrall’s character’s whose relationship and difference in personality is highlighted throughout the play. Cattrall’s character being what most might associate with the norm and Prospere’s being the rebel. Through Prospere’s cocky and intellectual portrayal of the character it is not difficult for one to see oneself in her shoes. Another interesting character was Ogilvy’s. The calm and slow state of the character provided a great contrast to the other characters’ that were faster paced. Due to Ogilvy staying in character not just during speaking parts resulted in authentically funny moments. Attention to detail was clear throughout the play from real food and drinks to the specific placing of actors in the center of the stage with other actors miming behind them. The use of mime was effective in filling the stage but not taking away from the talking roles. However, there was a scene between Renton and Prospere that started out fast but then picked up in pace even more and started to feel a bit rushed. Despite that the story had a nice arc leaving the audience satisfied.
Reviewer: Marcelina Kruczynska
Reviewed: 16th August 2023
North West End UK Rating: