A Moon for the Misbegotten at Almeida Theatre Review
Written by Emily K-N for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
I entered this play knowing very little about writer Eugene O’Neill’s work, so I wasn’t aware it’s the sequel to his play Long Day’s Journey into Night. Nevertheless, you don’t need to have knowledge of this to enjoy A Moon for the Misbegotten. Set in Connecticut in 1923, we find seemingly rough, headstrong Josie Hogan (Ruth Wilson) and her father, perpetually drunk Phil (David Threlfall), on the rundown farm they rent. Alcoholic landowner, James ‘Jim’ Tyrone (Michael Shannon), is a frequent visitor and we learn that Josie has long standing romantic feelings for him, and he has the same towards her. It’s this that forms a crucial element of the plot of a play that explores themes of guilt, shame, and the search for connection and salvation.
Rebecca Frecknall’s direction ensures no beat is missed and every ounce of emotion is felt. It helps to be blessed with actors of such high calibre, and Frecknall has excelled at breathing life into this revival. From the choice to have the actors entering and exiting the stage through the audience, to varying their use of the stage space, it’s hard not to be transfixed throughout.
The three lead actors are nothing short of sublime. Michael Shannon is convincing as troubled alcoholic James, full of self-loathing and guilt over the death of his mother. David Threlfall’s Phil brings a chaotic energy and hardened exterior, revealing a softer side towards the end of the play. Ruth Wilson delivers a captivating performance as Josie. She captures the complex character with great skill, unravelling a tough persona to reveal a sensitive soul who yearns for love, but feels she is unworthy of it.
Lighting by Jack Knowles is inspired and adds atmosphere to the production throughout. A spotlight occasionally circles the stage, likely signifying the moon’s orbit, and is highly impactful. The simple wooden set by Tom Scutt allows for the acting to be the focus of the piece, whilst giving the impression of a rundown farm.
A Moon for the Misbegotten is a little long, running at approximately three hours, but there’s plenty to keep you engaged for the duration. It’s an acting masterclass, full of emotion and complex characters, as well as intriguing creative elements.
A Moon for the Misbegotten plays at the Almeida Theatre until 16 August
★★★★
