The Stage

Equus

Published Tuesday 9 March 2010 at 13:15 by Peter Cargill

Jemima Levick’s working of this powerful piece has a distinct ‘workshop’ feel to it.

Designer Alex Lowde has dispensed with the auditorium, brought the audience on to an extended stage, with the action taking place on a stark, shining white area. But don’t equate ‘workshop’ with ‘work in progress’, for this is the full deal. The rep ensemble has maintained the highest of standards over its ten years and this Equus is equal to anything they have done to establish this reputation.

It is a triumphant blend of youth and experience. Long-standing company member Robert Paterson and graduate Duncan Anderson are the verbal protagonists as psychiatrist Dr Dysart and patient Alan Strang, uncovering each other’s demons. Their scenes together are absorbing and being in such proximity brings with it a sense of participation for the audience. The cast even sit in the front row when off stage.

Colin Grenfell (lights) and composer/sound man Philip Pinsky are responsible for an incredible atmosphere, culminating in the balletic and horrifyingly dramatic scene in the stables.

The ensemble’s John Buick and Ann Louise Ross (her soliloquy is quite breathtaking) are excellent as Alan’s influential parents and graduate Angela Hardie is the ideal contrast as Alan’s girlfriend. Irene Macdougall gives another outstanding performance as Hester Salomon, who refers Alan for treatment and is the cause of some of the doctor’s own hang-ups.

Kevin Lennon and Emily Winter complete the line-up with Alan Burgon, Lindsay McDonald (movement), Jim Sturgeon and John Macaulay quite superb as the horses.

This is not only to be enjoyed, it is to be experienced.

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