The Memory of Water – Octagon Theatre

Three women return to their family home, preparing for their mother’s funeral. What follows is an exploration of life and grief, love and pain, secrets and memory, all wrapped up in an unexpectedly laughter-filled performance. Witty one liners and perfectly written comedy did light up the subject material and reminded me that there is humour in every situation, even if it feels inappropriate or clumsy sometimes.

From the moment I entered the auditorium, I was drawn into the home and life of this woman who had died. The set (designed by Katie Scott) frays at the edges, cleverly inviting you to be a part of the moment, rather than just an external observer. This was key in helping me feel engaged in the play throughout.

This is a slow-release play. Even though the characters seem to present themselves as a complete package right from the start: the doctor, the health supplement store owner and the chaotic and needy youngest sister, as in every good play, cracks start to appear and their true selves are slowly revealed as the play goes on.

I found myself eager to follow the characters through this story. Polly Lister is exceptional and particularly authentic in her portrayal of Mary, as she wrestles with her relationship with her mother and her own past, as well as her current romantic relationship.

Unfortunately, there were a couple of elements of story and performance that did not quite seem to gel as well as they could have, and elements of the plot (without giving away any spoilers!) got a bit lost in the play as it is presented here, directed by Lotte Wakeham. Helen Flanagan’s agitated and scattered performance as the youngest sister, Catherine, lacked the nuance in places to make her relatable or likeable – which perhaps was the point.

It was only on reading the information about the play on the website that I learned that it was set in 1996. On reflection, it is almost helpful that I wasn’t able to locate it in a particular time or place, other than ‘the recent past’, because it gave the subject matter a feeling of being somewhat outside time. Although there are dated references and particular fashion, the ideas discussed and the responses evoked manage to remain applicable even now, thirty years since its premiere.

This Olivier Award-winning play (Best New Comedy Play, 2000) is definitely worth seeing, despite the flaws in this production.

The Memory of Water continues at the Octagon Theatre in Bolton until Saturday 21^st February. More details and ticket information can be found on the website: https://octagonbolton.co.uk/

Reviewer: Jo Tillotson

Reviewed: 3^rd February 2026

North West End UK Rating: