From Ibiza to the Norfolk Broads
South Hill Park
Sunday, January 28
A cosy night in watching the BBC’s Call the Midwife would probably have been an alternative evening for many at the Wilde Theatre, South Hill Park, Bracknell on Sunday.
In addition to having appealing characters, the television series does a good job re-telling the hard realities of East Enders’ lives. But the play at The Wilde, From Ibiza to the Norfolk Broads by Adrian Berry, was a much grittier and more tense affair.
It made for an uncomfortable but also worthwhile evening.
It certainly made you think about teenagers’ plights as they deal with mental illness.
Alex Walton’s convincing performance as 17-year-old Martin drew the audience’s sympathy and interest. His gave a rounded picture of his struggles as he tries to deal with his illness, his mother’s drinking and the disappearance of his father.
Walton did a remarkable job playing all the other richly varied characters Martin meets, all interwoven with his main character. He was able to invoke highly atmospheric “pictures” of scenes through his acting and words. We were there with him in that seedy Croydon pub as he met the lugubrious landlord.
Walton’s account, as narrator, helped us understand Martin’s life and motivations.
A massive David Bowie fan, Martin makes comparisons with Bowie’s life and his own.
Walton’s fluid dance and movement to Bowie’s music were wonderfully energetic and added greatly to the story.
Rob Newman played the voice of Bowie. Margaret Campbell was the voice of Martin’s counsellor Glenda. Both were effective.
Walton left the stage in tears after his powerful performance. Re-enacting the world of Martin must be a stimulating but highly moving business.
The play and Alex Walton’s performance have been critically acclaimed across the UK.
SUE CORCORAN
