BRumors of a reunion seem to be circulating — at least, for one band — and here's another song that, while it may not have been as era-defining, speaks to a similar estrangement between members of a once-tight-knit group.
The last time Joe (James Westphal), Ellie (Laura Evelyn) and Ross (Lois Cronin) performed together was when they were studying for their A-Levels – almost 20 years ago – and they reunite in their hometown of Salisbury for a one-off charity concert.
In between there's Joe's disastrous divorce, Ross's career as a professional musician taking a downturn, and Ellie's decision to move back to Salisbury with her boyfriend and have children. Bernie Norris' play is as much a look back at early middle age as it is a look back at adolescence. The trio are navigating turmoil, but their reunion gives them a chance to take a breather and reflect on where life has taken them.
The film is full of verve and snappy dialogue, but never quite reaches a satisfactory resolution. Norris, who also directs, brings beautiful, vivid observations to the screenplay, bringing out the witty exchanges and awkward exchanges: Joe's awkwardness and apparent inferiority complex about never having left Salisbury, Ellie's flippant verbal attacks, Ross's endearing nonchalance. There's a well-crafted naturalism to their interactions, and a certain romance to their reunion.
The production is presented as a series of rehearsal sessions with musical equipment, with a set design by Betje Kenning. Though performed in the village hall, the basement of the Arcola exudes a rugged subterranean charm, with the second half unfolding at a more sensual pace than the tense first half, and the play's secrets revealed.
The songs are interwoven with the dialogue and are often moving and beautifully sung, and the actors are so convincing as a band that at times it feels more like live than gig theater—perhaps because the “theater” part doesn't take a big enough turn.
The characters' stories are fascinating, but the audience isn't fully drawn into them. There are intelligent reflections on recent events like the pandemic and the Salisbury poisonings, but they aren't woven into the fabric of the play. I want more songs, secrets, intensification, bittersweet nostalgia about what it means to be home, to the town you came from, and the people who were there.
