Three staircases, two ladders and a couple of platforms made the set for Compass Theatre's production of Moby Dick: it was eye-catching, not too fussy nor too bare. Herman Melville's play controversially explores the personal and collective emotional journeys made by a diverse ship's crew. These men have come from all walks of life but find themselves aboard the Pequod, working together to survive something more than just physical danger but the lunacy of their Captain Ahab who risks their lives for personal revenge. Moby Dick is controversial by its nature since it is essentially about the emotional and physical process of whale-killing which is explained in gross detail, but by questioning the integrity of the Christian faith, exploring the return of the dead and psychosis at sea, it is increasingly contentious. The set was well used throughout using a variation of levels, and the lighting was imaginative, which made the show a visual feast. However, the first act was slow-moving, the action static and full of long monologues which, although well performed, left my attention drifting away from the stage. Despite some strong characterisations - particularly by Daniel Anthony who played Pip - this wordy act was storytelling theatre at its most over-indulgent. | "From the very beginning this show impresses the audience." | | Laura on Compass Theatre's Moby Dick |
When I returned for the second act I was expecting the same level of action but the opening sequence was brilliant, the choral work was magical and, for me, this interpretation of Moby Dick was saved. The introduction of choral vocal work improved the sound dramatically and the orchestra moulded together very well, supporting the action seamlessly. Chorus movements with sticks were interesting to watch and cast shadows across the stage adding to the foreboding atmosphere. These shadows subtly introduced a more sinister setting, in which life drifted towards death and somehow got caught in between. All in all I thoroughly enjoyed the second act and recommend patience with the first! The combination of strong acting from the lead characters, an interesting story and incredible music, set and lighting made this a good show. Why then, when this is such a fascinating theatrical cocktail, did I look around myself to find the auditorium somewhat less then half full? Have the public abandoned their social responsibility to take an interest in the exploration of human behaviour, at its most extreme, in powerful live theatre? |
