While it takes its time to settle into a rhythm, Connor McPherson’s play and production is a masterclass in storytelling.
This is certainly a play and a production that you need to sit back and think about long after the curtain falls, with its spellbinding range of tales (many of which have a supernatural feel to them) at its centre. Simple in premise but filled with depth in intensity to climax to a powerful emotional ending ,Connor McPherson’s play is a worthy addition to the West End.
First performed nearly 30 years ago, The Weir wonderfully blends the natural banter between locals in a rural town in Ireland with a supernatural element into the stories that are told in a cosy and old-fashioned designed pub that provides a suitable eery backdrop.
As the play unfolds in an understated way (that does take a little bit of time to settle down and find its rhythm admittedly), The Weir introduces the audience to a variety of characters, all of whom are well grounded and have plenty to offer the conversation as it unfolds. Each story uncovers and delves into their fears and regrets.
At the centre of it all, we have Jack who is used to his fellow companions making jibes about his appearance but he handles it all in a dignified way as he deals with the regrets of the past – his compassion towards newcomer Valerie who has a powerful story that interlinks with the others in a meaningful way is really profound. Surrounding him is barman Brandon (the only one not to tell a story) who is warm and great foil for th other characters, Finbar who looks after his mother and whose character has sense of loneliness but also you get a strong sense of loyalty he has. Jim is perhaps the brashest one there, determined to prove that he still belongs in the community even though he has moved away – yet we are never fully convince of this – morally he is a bit of shaky character. Newcomer Valerie might seem a bit quieter and you aren’t sure where she fits in – until the last twenty minutes or so and her trauma is painful to hear about.
The atmosphere created by McPherson’s mesmerising production captures the audiences attention as strange experiences of folklore, spirits and graveyard sightings are shared. It is intensely focused production that knows how to ensure that the audience is enthralled by the stories that are being told – even if initially the setting of the scene takes over a little bit initially.
The paranormal way in which the play unfolds is enhanced further by Mark Henderson’s chilling lighting design that works in perfect harmony with Rae Smith’s cosy set design, adding to the intimate feel that the characters feel safe enough to unburden themselves. The way in which the pictures dotted around are used add to the feel that the set plays an important part in the way in which the stories are told.
But this cast is absolutely sublime – there is not a fault among them. The banter and emotions that fly between them all is exquisite and feels completely natural. Brendan Gleeson, making his West End debut, as Jack is wonderfully endearing and charismatic in the way he relates to the others. There is a real gracefulness to his performance. Sean McGinleyy in sharp contrast (in a good way) highlights Jim’s brashness and self-assuredness brilliantly, while Kate Phillips as Valerie although initially an observer, offers a heart wrenching performance that captivates in every way as she settles into her surroundings. It is her and Brendan’s character’s who are given the most hope at the end given what they have been through individually.
While it takes a while for it to settle down, this production of The Weir is really a masterclass of storytelling, performed in a captivating way by the entire cast.
By Emma Clarendon
The Weir continues to play at the Harold Pinter Theatre until the 6th December. To book tickets click here.
Rating: ❤️❤️❤️❤️