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Review: Sebastian Faulk’s Birdsong, at Nottingham’s Theatre Royal, showing until Saturday, October 19




An extraordinary tale of love and loss in the face of overwhelming tragedy and darkness is now playing at Nottingham’s Theatre Royal.

Birdsong tells us that ‘there is nothing more than to love and be loved’, as we witness a romance set against the bleak backdrop and horror of the First World War.

It is not an easy watch, dealing with many dark themes, but was utterly engrossing and at times had me with my heart in my mouth.

Cast members in Original Theatre's touring production of Birdsong. Credit: Pamela Raith Photography.
Cast members in Original Theatre's touring production of Birdsong. Credit: Pamela Raith Photography.

This is the power of theatre. The ability to transport an audience to a different place. To be so engrossed in the atmosphere that you don’t dare look away — every moment demanding your attention and rewarding your commitment.

Although running at just over 3 hours, it never felt it, and with two intermissions to break up the acts it made the tough subjects easier to digest.

The main cast of characters were quite simply incredible, and the the actors portraying them deserve every accolade that will surely come their way.

The romantic intimacy felt real and grounder, which is down to the raw talent of James Esler and Charlie Russell as our leads, Stephen and Isabelle.

During the first act their incredibly passionate performance brought to life one of the most convincing love stories I have ever seen on stage.

Charlie Russell and James Esler in Original Theatre's touring production of Birdsong. Credit: Pamela Raith Photography.
Charlie Russell and James Esler in Original Theatre's touring production of Birdsong. Credit: Pamela Raith Photography.

However, a special mention is reserved for Max Bowden as the Sapper, Jack Firebrace.

From humorous ‘jack the lad’ antics, to utterly heartbreaking monologues, his emotional range and connection with his fellow actors and the audience had me gripped every time he stepped into the spotlight and took this production to another level.

The trenches and tunnels are captured through creative set design, lightings and sound, which is simplistic but effective, adaptable and kept the focus on the actors’ performances.

Max Bowden in Original Theatre's touring production of Birdsong. Credit: Pamela Raith Photography.
Max Bowden in Original Theatre's touring production of Birdsong. Credit: Pamela Raith Photography.

It is a story which shows the amazing power of love. Love of family, love of friends, love of the ones we long for.

An unexpected but welcome and genuinely emotional experience, this show was harrowing and beautiful in equal measure.

For fans of the original Sebastian Faulk novel, or complete newcomers, simply sit back and let the story take you in, you won’t regret it.

— FB

Birdsong is now showing at Nottingham’s Theatre Royal until this Saturday, October 19.



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