TW: mentions of alcoholism and the slave trade.
In Prothero’s own words, “it’s a love letter to home, and a story about people”, as we follow Liverpudlian protagonist Alan (Neve Francis) through a difficult time in his life, looking to Bella (Polly Marris-Shaw), an incarnation of one of the Liver Birds looking over the city, for guidance. With a wildly talented cast and a solid sense of dedication behind it, the play truly became airborne.
Having seen and been extremely impressed by ‘The Pillowman’, also directed by Prothero, I had high expectations for ‘Flying.’ I was absolutely not disappointed. The play tackles alcoholism, dysfunction, and treats the city’s involvement in slave trade with care and sensibility. The play is truly representative of a city given up on by the government and balances its more serious aspects with genuine humour that had the entire audience in hysterics. More importantly, you could tell that every cast member was genuinely having fun, and that it was an exciting production to be in – this, for me, is a sign of great directing.
Francis, in playing the character of Alan, was tasked with keeping the play conversational and humorous while grappling with some really serious issues. The audience is almost drawn in by Francis with the funny stereotype of the character, and subsequently spat out with the heart-breaking reality of his life. This was done masterfully, and I particularly enjoyed how Francis used the space in the room by walking through the audience, adding to the sense that you are really part of a close-knit, gritty and real community. Not to mention the use of the balcony at the end, where Alan truly soars.
Francis’ relationship with his son Paul (Lydia Smith) and Elaine (Caitlin Willis) was an almost uncomfortable watch – the quality of the acting within the cast made it feel as though I was watching something professional, and deeply personal simultaneously. Willis’ portrayal of Elaine was really something beautiful, exploring a character torn between settling for less and doing what is best for her family, as well as the protective Theresa (Jessica Gardiner) who brought a needed sense of reality to the play, with grace and precision. The dancing scene in particular between Alan and Elaine had me close to tears, with the tender relationship they seem to share but can never have. My favourite parts of Prothero’s play were in the complex interpersonal relationships between these people.
All the cast brought something essential to the play – they all felt like people. Even in playing funnier characters such as Ian (Sairre Sukphol) and Frankie (Luke Nightingale), there was skill and a distinct understanding of who they were portraying. Lots of the characters seemed to be split between originality and stereotype, which aided the shows layered dynamic.
A personal highlight for me was Nightingale’s diverse characterisation of both Frankie, a homeless man, and a policeman. He slipped into both roles with ease and humour. There was also an element of escapism, in an otherwise macabre story, brought by the mystical and enchanting personification of Bella. The culmination of this talented cast brought the play to new, dizzying heights.
In summary, Prothero’s ‘Flying’ was a beautiful ode to communities loved and left behind, which I thoroughly enjoyed and feel privileged to have seen. Extremely impressive and aptly named, too, as each person involved will absolutely soar in their future endeavours. I look forward, in particular, to seeing Prothero’s career take flight within the coming years.