Birdsong
Celebrating the 30th anniversary of Sebastian Faulk's novel and adapted for the stage by Rachel Wagstaff, Birdsong is the story of love, loss and what that really means.
Directed by Alastair Whatley, Stephen Wraysford is a young Englishman in a pre-war France. Beginning a passionate love affair with Isabelle Azaire, their love changes everything. With war breaking, Stephen must lead his men through the Battle of the Somme, but when a tunnel collapses, deep underground, will the memory of his love for Isabelle get him through to live another day.
Set before and during the Great War, Richard Kent's costume design beautifully captures the era and his set design is simple, yet perfectly portrays an image of the harshness of this world. There is a particularly momentously captured aesthetic at the end of Act 2, which seems to have taken a moment as if on a canvas.
Charlie Russell as Isabelle is delightfully portrayed, from her reserved wife trapped in a lifeless and abusive marriage to her passion for Stephen, it's wonderful to see her shine in a more serious role than we are used to seeing her in, showcasing her talents wonderfully.
James Esler as Stephen captivated the audience. It's astounding that this role marks his professional stage debut. This is one talent we are certain to be seeing more of in the future.
With Max Bowden in a superb portrayal as Jack, a loveable soldier who has everyone's back, even to the detriment of his own survival, this is one talented cast throughout.
The story itself shows us how far people are prepared to go for love. Not only to be with the ones they love, but to protect them. To put themselves in second place to allow another's survival, no matter what the cost.
This show was reviewed on the 28th January 2025 at the Birmingham REP where it runs until the 1st February 2025. Full tour dates and tickets can be found here: Book Now — Birdsong Tour 2024/25
Review written by Rachel Louise Martin
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Photo credit: Pamela Raith
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