Peoples Republic of South Devon

Spies (review)

April 23rd, 2008

- Northcott Theatre, Exeter, until April 26
posted by Cptn 

Oh, what a tangled web is weaved when there’s deception in the air. Theatre Alibi run hither and thither, some in pursuit of the truth, others with a nose for deception. It’s enough to make you wonder how they don’t get tangled up themselves.

Set in the second world war, there’s an air of familiar ground to Spies, which is on at the Northcott until April 26 – British reserve; childhood delusion and coming of age.

The story is based on Michael Frayn’s Whitbread prize-winning novel of the same name, and has a fair dollop of nostalgia. But it’s the touches that stop this tale from being twee: the humour; the corrugated steel set with built-in hedges; the melancholy and claustrophobic live music from squeezebox and cello.

It’s easy to identify with the plight of young grubby-kneed Stephen (Benjamin Warren), helped by the narration of his older self Stefan. The story revolves around his relationship with best friend and sinisterly proper Keith (John-Paul Macleod). Suspected German Spy, Keith’s mum (Jordan White), subtley falls from distant, mysterious figure to confidante. Around these Christian Flint and Cerianne Roberts play multiple characters that don’t leave you counting their roles.

There’s loads going on, and it’s either richly layered or there are too many strands, but this is a grown up story, and there are no easy answers. Growing up isn’t a case of doing what’s right, it’s more like entering a dark tunnel, where the light at the end is the fabled on-coming train.

Live theatre has lashings of x-factor (something that the story touches on) which kept the largely young audience entranced.

To book tickets, go to the Exeter Northcott website.

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Entry Filed under: Arts