Things Between Heaven and Earth – Underbelly Bristo Square

Eric (Jun Noh) has changed since May (Marina Hata) last saw him. He’s a successful author, dressed in a snazzy suit at the suggestion of his publisher. His books seem to describe people and events from May and Eric’s real lives, including the death of May’s husband. But does Eric know more about the accident than he is letting on?

Billed as a psychological thriller, the staging echoes film noir, with asymmetrical composition and lots of pacing. But this production – which I would describe as a melodrama – takes itself far too seriously. Eric enjoys intellectual discussion, but his philosophical musings distract from the story. I did enjoy Hata’s performance as May, and the references to the Roman Catholic concept of purgatory.

The idea has potential, and the visuals provide added interest, but ultimately, I did not feel sufficiently invested in the story or characters. Next time, Noh, who also wrote the script, should concentrate on building suspense, the better to draw the audience into the world of the play.

Reviewer: Wendy McEwan

Reviewed: 20^th August 2024

North West End UK Rating: