Moby Dick, UK Tour (2024) Review

`Moby Dick production image. Photo by Manuel Harlan`

Reviewed by Hollie for Theatre and Tonic.

*Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in return for an honest review

Caution: This production includes: Haze, flashing lights, strobes, blood and references to death of animals and humans.

The Royal and Derngate’s Royal Theatre provided an intimate setting and charm for Simple8’s new reimagining of Herman Melville’s classic novel. The novel is set in the 1840s but this production brought a modern take on this story of sailors, storms and the sea. The stripped back scenery and simple props allow for the focus to be on the highly talented actors and the story being told.

The tale begins with Ishmael, played by Mark Arends, an intrepid traveller who with his old carpet bag of possessions as his only companion, is looking for his next adventure. Ishmael stumbles upon an overcrowded inn and is offered a bed to share with Queequeg, a quiet but strong harpooner who quickly becomes his friend and an opportunity for a whaling adventure.

The pair hop on board the ship the Pequod and set off on their voyage. Captain Ahab, or ‘Old Thunder’ as he is known to the shipmates, is an illusive character who keeps himself to himself for a few days and doesn’t introduce himself but he does keep them awake at night. Mysterious rumours and tales circulate the ship as they hoist the flag and set sail.

When Captain Ahab, played by Guy Rhys, finally makes an appearance, it becomes clear that he is out for vengeance on Moby Dick, a white sperm whale that took his leg on a previous voyage. The voyage becomes personal, as the search for the formidable and majestic sperm whale carries on. It is the most valuable whale in commerce, so many ships are trailing after it and ships and crew begin to work together to attempt to bring the gargantuan brute to its end.

The production isn’t centered around one particular main character and this allows for the audience to be immersed in the show themselves, and see the story from a range of different perspectives.

The multipurpose scenery mesmerised me, as different sets and locations were moved and created by the actors. The actors are not only actors, but also musicians as they use percussion instruments to emulate the sounds of the waves and the sea. Jonathan Charles, is the musical director for the show, and what he has done with the use of the instruments and the actors singing sea shanties throughout the production, is really clever! The music was amazing and very reflective, as well as being uplifting and emotional at the same time. The choreography of movements, directed by Rachael Nanyonjo, along with the props was superb and brought all of the elements together.

The themes of family, survival and vengeance all come together in the second act. As the crew secure the rigging and man the lifeboats, will they achieve victory over Moby Dick? This is a memorable and carefully crafted production that will grab your attention for the duration of the story.

Will you set sail and anchors away and visit this production on its UK tour? This production continues to tour across the UK until June 22nd 2024, in theatres including: New Wolsey Theatre, Blackpool Grand Theatre and Malvern Festival Theatre before ending at Oxford Playhouse. All information can be found here.