THE FRONT ROW

Having attended last week’s performance of “A Song For Ella Grey” at York Theatre Royal, I was treated to a great rendition that blended Greek mythology with modern storytelling. I didn’t know the story before the show, which made for a compelling watch that whilst wasn’t easy to follow for me, was clearly great for the audience it was trying to hit.

The cast, comprised of five young actors, brought to life David Almond’s interpretation of the Orpheus and Eurydice myth with passion and authenticity. Led by Olivia Onyehara’s strong performance as Claire, the ensemble delivered a balanced portrayal of love and loss, capturing the complexities of adolescent emotions.

Based on David Almond’s novel and adapted by playwright Zoe Cooper, the production transported the audience to the rugged Northumberland coastline, where the story unfolded against a backdrop of jagged cliffs and windswept shores.

The staging, while initially unassuming, revealed its prowess through the use of evocative lighting and a transcendent soundscape. Podiums resembling floating clouds served as poignant reminders of the emotional landscape traversed by the characters.

The integration of music added depth to the narrative, with haunting melodies underscoring the emotional journey of the characters. However, while the first act resonated with depth and imagination, the second act felt somewhat lacking in momentum. With strange character development and odd costume design, it dropped off a metaphoric Northumberland cliff for me – but the young audience still seemed very engaged.

Overall, “A Song For Ella Grey” offered a compelling exploration of friendship, loss, and the power of storytelling. With its performances and evocative staging, it provided a memorable theatrical experience for the audiences with many still talking about it outside the venue afterwards.