Review: Brief Encounter

by Daniel Hill

Emma Rice has a new company of her own so perhaps her final appearance for Kneehigh could be this revival of her adaptation of Noel Coward’s Brief Encounter. Kneehigh and Emma Rice are two of the biggest names within British theatre and this production has been to every corner of the world over the last ten years as we follow two people through their Brief Encounter. Full of Rice’s identifiable techniques, the audience is once again wowed by this dramaturge whose most recent post was as The Globe Theatre’s artistic director.

Based on the film of the same name, Rice’s adaptation fits beautifully in The Empire Cinema in Haymarket in which the ensemble become the ushers at the beginning of the play. Rice transports us to a cinema during the early 20th Century and we are given a real treat as the wonderful cast perform a set of songs from yesteryear. During the play itself we follow the two lovers who meet one Thursday afternoon and begin a romance during their ‘Brief Encounter.’ Their relationship begins to bloom during the play as we see them each Thursday afternoon at the train station. This involves a boat trip which includes splashes on stage, secret encounters and the subplot of two younger lovers from the train station. It is a performance full of laughter, sentiment and celebration.

Emma Rice allows the audience to set their worries free as we follow the young couple and it is her direction that has lasted all this time that makes the piece as wonderful as it is. With her direction that is often full of sutblety, we are invited into this magical world within which the play takes place. Emma Rice makes it clear that everyone should be excited for her next venture as this is some of the best direction in world theatre at the moment. When we see the two lovers suddenly lift off of the ground in flight there was an audible gasp of wonder that is so rarely heard in the theatre; moments like this are what makes theatre memorable and exciting. The interaction between the screen and stage was something I hadn’t seen before and was executed perfectly. Another unforgettable moment is at the end when the cast emerge dressed once again as the ushers, reminding us that this was just a fictional tale and not real life. This being the third show I have seen directed by Emma Rice, I personally can’t wait to see more of this brilliant direction in action!

It would be unfair to exclude any of them as they were all so vital for this piece; however, they so all deserve some sort of recognition individually for creating this brilliant ensemble piece. Isabel Pollen and Jim Sturgeon created a truly romantic connection between each other which kept the audience involved throughout the show. Beverly Rudd’s energy kept the piece going which is something that she excels at in the three productions I have seen her a part of. The audience were all amazed at the breathtaking dance moves from Dean Nolan at one point of the piece - truly unmissable. Lucy Thackery was able to keep the comedy oozing throughout the performance and was truly vital for the piece. Jon Slovick’s voice was one of the many highlights of the play with music and it often added a further sense of emotion, with the Band also adding a beautiful, sentimental sense of value to this amazing piece.

What a play. Breathtaking, sentimental and hilarious are three of the many words I could have used to describe this stunning piece. It will be missed in the West End after its short run; however, according to Twitter, it will be returning to the UK next year so make sure that you see this because otherwise you have missed a real gem of British theatre. As for the cast, director and creative team: congratulations. You have created a vibrant and pleasing piece of theatre that must continue to live for years to come.