The Night Watch at Crescent Theatre Birmingham Review
Written by Charis for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
The Night Watch, originally by Sarah Waters, is a historical fiction novel set in 1940s London during and after World War II. The book was adapted by Hattie Nalor into a theatre piece first shown on May 16, 2016. The Night Watch focuses on the interconnected lives of characters: Kay, Helen, Julia, Viv, and Duncan, alongside Fraser, Mickey, and Munday. The stories of these individuals are told backwards, starting in 1947 and ending in 194.
The choice to tell their stories backwards is a unique and interesting aspect and is certainly a selling point for the piece. When Kay stated she was ‘’ brimming with secrets’’ it is a perfect analogy for the night watch and life outside of the piece in general. In life, you will meet people and not understand why they are the way they are. Sometimes you will get your answers, and other times you won’t. The second half of the piece answers a significant number of the questions left by the first, however not everything is answered. It was a great choice to leave some things unsaid, to let the audience read between the lines, and to leave the lines blurred. Not everything in life is explained, and it is a true reflection of life in this form. The interconnectedness of the characters and the unexpected reuniting of others adds to the reflection of real life as it is true that you never know who knows each other.
The highlight of the piece is the portrayal of Kay by Grace Cheatle. Her portrayal was raw, honest and her emotions, particularly her pain, could be felt by the audience. Kay’s situation and response to her past are ones that we can all relate to. Cheatle also has great chemistry with the other actors, especially Helen, portrayed by Beth Gilbert. Gilbert, Cheatle and Shannon all handled the theme of LGBT relationships and treatment of individuals within the time period. Showing that they would need to sneak around and spend time together privately, keeping labels such as ‘girlfriend’ between themselves. The night watch also discussed other heavy themes such as conscientious objectors, abortions, and loss during WW2.
The dresses, shoes, coats, and suits used within the piece are a credit to costume designer Jennet Marshall and really emulate the time period. Ensuring costuming is correct in historical pieces is incredibly important, and they have taken it seriously. Nicholas Pattison produced an immersive and truly believable set, which worked for a variety of locations with minor changes.
Having characters in the background frozen or carrying out daily activities added to the overall piece. However, there is one small complaint: it could be difficult at times to see and hear everything if there were multiple scenarios occurring at once.
The Night Watch plays at the Crescent Theatre until 19th July
★★★★
