Yet another perceptive and engaging tale from Henry Naylor
Reviewed at Holden Street Theatres on 13 February 2019
Presented by Gilded Balloon and Redbeard Theatre in association with Holden Street theatres
Reviewed 13 February 2019
Henry Naylor has given us another perceptive and engaging script which focuses on a past injustice that is still relevant today. The discrimination suffered by Jews in Germany before and during the second World War has been documented in many ways. This production puts the spotlight on sport through the stories of two young athletes, both with Jewish heritage. One is the darling of her sport before the rise of Hitler, blonde haired, privileged and very German but with a Jewish father. The other is from more modest circumstances but proudly Jewish.
These stories, in typical Naylor style, are told in alternate snatches of dialogue by the two very talented actors Sophie Shad, as Helene Mayer a fencer and Tessie Orange-Turner, Gretel Bergman a high jump athlete, both athletes famous for what they achieved in their respective fields. The nicely nuanced performances make the audience feel the anguish and dismay at the intrusion of politics into sport and the destruction of their dreams. This is not an untold story but gives depth to the retelling.
A sparse set allows director Louise Skanning to rotate the players, cleverly using the levels to emphasis certain points. The difference in their circumstances and attitudes make a compelling story with a message too often told and too easily forgotten.
Reviewed by Fran Edwards
Twitter: @franeds
Rating out of 5: 5
Venue: Holden St theatres – The Arch
Season: 12 Feb – 16 Mar
Duration: 60min
Tickets: $18 -$28
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