Relics at Lyric Hammersmith Review
Written by Annie for Theatre and Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review. All views are our own
There’s nothing quite like family to drive you to extremes. Ben Ockrent’s new play, Relics, is a dark comedic drama based upon fractured sibling dynamics as four siblings come together in the wake of their mother’s passing to go through her belongings and uncover an awful family secret.
Michael Longhurst has directed a fantastic story of sibling squabbles and the battle of greed vs morals brilliantly. While this is not the most original story of finding a long-lost artwork masterpiece, this story is told with much passion, witty jokes and brilliantly showcased familial dynamics, resulting in a very entertaining watch throughout. This would be a perfect TV drama and has an interesting mix of personalities clashing throughout. Its exploration into the processing of grief, trauma, and reconciling changes in how you view family is beautifully sincere and profound. The only drawback is that the show is so busy questioning the morals of selling stolen artwork and the magnitude of grief that we miss the fine details of the characters. Much is alluded to, such as potential affairs and violent parents, but none of this is truly resolved or properly delved into. Therefore, leaving maddening half glimpses and multiple red herrings, which enrich the story but are never concluded.
The cast are brilliant. First is the eldest sister, Olivia, played by Sally Phillips. She is the centre on which the story spins and the family's moral compass in the face of unexpected treasure. Her troubled dynamic with brother Johnny is fascinating and heartbreaking to watch. JJ Field, as the elder brother, Johnny was magnificent in his slippery morals and deep disquiet with vulnerability in familial interactions. His schemes and misdirection form the tension in the play, and it is impossible to know what he is truly thinking. Sam Swainsbury plays the autistic health and safety officer. Rob. He delivered many heartfelt and hilarious moments to wind up or unwind the tension as needed. Charlie Clive was thoroughly charming as burnt-out teacher Michelle, struggling to know her place in the family dynamics and to be seen as an adult. This cast’s chemistry was impeccable and incredibly realistic throughout.
Joanna Scotcher’s sepia-toned bedroom set evokes a strong sense of nostalgia and a house trapped in the past. This is reflected in the four siblings’ dynamics as they quickly regress in their behaviours toward each other. Simisola Majekodunmi's lighting design and the sound design by Dan Balfour work well to create an atmosphere of unease throughout, as well as a hilarious fight scene that will totally eclipse your mind in laughter. The show’s running time of two hours and fifteen minutes works well in terms of pacing, although the second act feels much further spiralled into chaos and repetition than the first act.
Overall, this is a compelling, vividly detailed and realistic family drama which looks into the heart of how what binds us together is also what can pull us apart. Its showcase of how the past relics can shape and alter the present, which is powerfully illustrated throughout. If you enjoy a brilliant cast, interesting stories and an intriguing night out, then this is the show for you.
Relics plays at Lyric Hammersmith until 18 July 2026
★★★★
