Review: Iris at Newcastle Live Theatre

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More Than An Eye-Full

Iris

Newcastle Live Theatre

Until Saturday 30^th April 2016

It’s after the funeral but no-one has touched the buffet. Two sisters are coming to terms with their mothers death but surely the eldest one hasn’t brought a bloke she has just met back to the house for a bit of fun? And what is that smell in the living room?

Iris is Alison Carr’s first full length play to be staged at Live Theatre and it bears all of the quality hallmarks of her previous play The Soaking of Vera Shrimp. (NETG Review of The Soaking of Vera Shrimp LINK) Max Roberts has directed a tight kitchen sink drama that explores much more than grief and family relationships.

The strong cast of three are believable. Much more than that, the audience will care about what happens next and there lies the magical ingredient to a fascinating drama.

After 7 years in Britain’s favourite soap Coronation Street, Katy Cavanagh plays Julie, the sister who has returned to the matriarchal home for the funeral. Her portrayal of a head strong, confident woman is a perfect contrast to the younger vulnerable sister Ruby.  Sam Neale is captivating as the less mature sibling who is struggling without a mother looking after her.

In contrast to both of the relatives is Gerry, the crime scene cleaner who links up with Julie. Joe Caffrey is an award-winning versatile actor that has excelled in numerous Live Theatre productions such as Wet House (NETG Review of Wet House LINK). Iris gives him an opportunity for Joe to show his class as an actor.

The story of how the two sisters cope with events after their mother, Iris, has died and how the Ruby copes with Julie bringing Gerry home relies heavily on both a quality script and a great chemistry between the 3 actors. Wrapped around their action is a great set, designed by Patrick Connellan, and lighting design by Drummond Orr.

The Live Theatre has a deserved reputation for promoting new writing and this world premiere of Alison Carr’s work is another example of their contribution to the culture in the region. 

Whilst the play has adult situations and language, it doesn’t go out of its way to shock the audience for the sake of it. There are no cheap shots in this enjoyable drama. The production is laced with humour and gives a perspective of the human condition.  Iris is a fascinating drama that we’d like to see much more of. The rollercoaster of emotions that underpins even the most dysfunctional of relationships, and fabulous acting, results in a cracking drama.

    

This review was written by Stephen Oliver for the North East Theatre Guide.

Read the original North East Theatre Guide preview: http://www.northeasttheatreguide.co.uk/2016/03/preview-iris-at-newcastle-live-theatre.html 

Tickets:
Tickets for Iris cost £22-£10 full price, £22-£12 over 60s and £15-£6 for other concessions. For more information or to book tickets visit www.live.org.uk or contact the box office on (0191) 232 1232.