Theatre Review - HOME, I'M DARLING - PEOPLE'S THEATRE- NEWCASTLE

 

Johnny (Sam Burrell) & Judy (Kay Edmundson) photo Paul Hood

Written by Laura Wade, ‘Home, I’m Darling’ is an enigmatic dark comedy that questions gender roles in a ‘normal’ marriage; how and why they have changed over the years. The story follows Judy, who (with the support of husband Johnny), is trying her best to live as a ‘fifties’ housewife. It’s a truly fascinating play that certainly seems relevant in a world full of ‘Trad Wife’ influencers. The audience was completely enwrapped as they watched joy turn into private horror as the ‘perfect’ marriage begins to crumble under the weight of an unsatisfying illusion.

Director Eileen Davidson presents a beautiful vision for the play. Transitions were not only swift, but magical - as performers danced (choreographed by Kaila Moyers and Jonathan Goodman) through and into the following scene. Particularly in the first half, it plays out like a series of dream sequences, adding to the idea that living in the fifties is a fantasy. Sound (Kate Scott and Aleks Carver), Lighting (Xander Burbidge, Robbie Close, Kirstie Corfield and Jez Corfield), Props (Rye Mattick, Ashlyn Brook, Helen Parker and Karen Elliott) and Wardrobe (Jenny Davison and Luke McVeigh) all displayed masterstrokes of care and attention that added to the perfection of the play.

The audience was welcomed in with the blare of fifties rock ‘n’ roll music, giving everyone a chance to appreciate the set. Ah, the set! A complete 1950s style two-story house, designed by Kaila Moyers with such attention to detail I heard a lady say “I want that kitchen!”

Sylvia (Jo McEvedy) & Fran (Steph Moore) photo Paul Hood

As to the cast, it was extremely well performed by all. Excentric mother Sylvia (Jo McEvedy), tries to point out why no one lives – or should want to live – in that era anymore. The sleek and stylishly-modern Alex (Sara Jo Harrison), tries to be polite and professional through some very eccentric nibbles. Fran (Steph Moore), was warm, understanding, amusing and very apologetic as Judy’s slightly sweary friend. Marcus (Sam Hinton), was endearingly funny despite his role having such dark and creepy undertones. Johnny (Sam Burrell), and Judy (Kay Edmundson), were both very likable characters with great chemistry. The portrayal of their characters and their emotions was faultless. Kay Edmundson, in particular, deserves an award not just for her stunning performance but also for rarely leaving the stage all evening.

A dramatic, yet warm and funny show; not to be missed.

Home, I’m Darling is showing at The People’s Theatre, until the 4^th October.