Halloween is a time of year that I simultaneously love and hate. I appreciate the increased amount of spooky entertainment, but I don’t appreciate the imminent risk of being slapped round the face with an egg in what can only be described as drive-by dairy. Given that theatre is rarely graced with horror or thriller plays, I was very excited to visit The REP for one bumpy ride.

The Lovely Bones is about the murder of a young girl named Susie. From what is described as her heaven, she tries to communicate with living relatives to help them find her killer. But given that there are limits to these interactions, she must struggle to influence these people and point them in the right direction before the killer can escape judgement.

Lovingly adapted for the stage by Bryony Lavery, this is an exceptional production that is masterfully crafted in so many ways. The set it unnerving and wildly versatile, taking full advantage of levels and the bareness of the stage. When blended with the precise, evocative lighting, the atmosphere of the piece comes to life. Nothing is explicitly shown on stage, but with all these elements in check, its darker moments are incredibly powerful and disturbing.

While there were a couple moments lacking real life, the performances are stellar and create strong and clear relationships between the characters. The choice to have surreal elements to the piece made sense, given the supernatural aspects of the story. Seeing gender-blind casting was not an issue either, especially after seeing several actors playing dogs brilliantly, complete with cones of shame.

Although I haven’t read the book or seen the film this show was based on, I do think the story is engrossing and has a greater depth than a lot of shows. Exploring themes of life, death and letting go is something often skirted around, but here these issues are touched on, but no definitive answer given other than a comment on karma I suppose. The closing moments of the play do feel somewhat rushed, but that is easily forgivable for a play that made me feel something.

It is a great pleasure to see so much creativity poured into what could have been just another play. Had the direction been less stylistic, I don’t think this show would have been as noteworthy as it is. Every element is brought forward in great form, but with some polishing here and there it could easily be a perfect show; and I reckon a few more nights into the run it could manage that.

★★★★☆  Jeremy Ulster    1^st November 2018