Run Sister Run - Review!

I attended a performance of “Run sister run”  at the Arcola Theatre, and it truly exceeded my expectations. This show was truly captivating whilst being so beautifully raw and compelling. The story was written by Chlöe Moss and Directed by Marlie Haco.

The Arcola Theatre itself was a small thrust stage with only three rows surrounding the stage. I particularly loved this for the show as you truly felt yourself set within those scenes and you felt the intimacy between the characters. It allowed you to connect with them on a deeper level. 

The themes explored in this show are so important and powerful. It includes depictions of self-harm, references to addiction, alcoholism and domestic violence. All of these themes are explored throughout the show and some are quite graphic, so please note this when attending, in case of triggers. 

I was extremely impressed at the performers versatility. There is a lot of fast changes in time period throughout the performance, with jumps backwards of about 10 years. The performers’ ability to encapsulate their characters and be able to switch between these ages and truly make the audience believe that they are that age was incredible. I also have so much respect for the performers as they went above and beyond when committing to their characters, which are extremely physically and mentally demanding. Their ability to do this full out every night at the standard which they performed is so impressive.

I also loved the use of props in the show. Particularly the mirror which ran across the back of the stage, this allowed characters who were not in the scenes to stand behind it, so their face isn’t visible. It also allowed the audience to see the scene from all angles and to be able to see the reflection of the actors when they aren’t facing you directly. 

As for the cast, they were sensational. Jo Herbert played Connie and was incredible at  showing the different ways that her character acts when around different people.  She perfected the loving motherly role whilst also perfectly being able to encapsulate her characters younger self. Kelly Gough played Ursula and what a sensational performance she gave. She truly brought us along through her characters journey, implying the struggles that she faced right from the beginning of the show. She truly had us all feeling bad for her and wanting what is best for her. I adored her commitment to the role and her characters lovable nature, particularly when around Jack. 

Charlie Beaven played Jack. He had such an amazing portrayal of a teenage boy. But also especially, of a young boy, which added so much value to the show as you can see how everything that goes on in the show affects every person in the family. An extremely significant moment which impacted me was at the end when Jack lets Ursula hold his baby. This was a beautiful moment shared between the two characters and so impactful!

Theo Fraser Steele played Adrian and perfectly established the mixed emotions that the audience should feel towards his character. At first, he provides comedic relief to the scenes, making the audience laugh at some of his absurd responses to the situation on stage. However, once his abusive side is revealed, the audience feels conflicted and angry towards him. Theo Fraser Steele flawlessly showed this switch of emotions when around his wife and excellently conveyed his current angry personality, contrasting to his loving, caring personality which he had when he and Connie first started dating.

I have never felt so much passion when writing a review, this show was genuinely so influential and if you ever get the opportunity to go see it, you must!! It’s current run at the Arcola ends on the 26th of July. I cannot wait to see what is in store for its future. 

rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

{gifted invite}