The Call of Cthulhu is a short story by American writer H. P. Lovecraft. Written in 1926, it was first published in the magazine Weird Tales in 1928. The story revolves around three related tales concerning the strange influences of an ancient, malevolent ‘god’ residing in the depths of the ocean and in the slumbering minds of men, waiting to rise again to ultimate dominion.
Devised, adapted and performed by Michael Sabbatton, we are introduced to Francis Wayland Thurston, who is in possession of a box that has haunted him for years. We are told the tale of Cthulu and how many before him have been destroyed by the curse that the box brings its owner.
The lighting design is simple, with a basic dimly lit wash throughout most of the performance. The use of a green light effectively symbolises the descent into madness and the horror Cthulu brings upon the characters. The sound clips are aptly chosen, however, their execution is a little lacking – they seem very clunky and often cut out altogether rather abruptly.
The descent into madness by forbidden knowledge is excellently captured by Sabberton; it makes for gripping and at times quite harrowing viewing. There is detailed work in the five characters he creates and though they seem a little caricatured at times, this allows for a clear the distinction between characters. Sabberton has an excellent command over his voice and puts this to great use with different qualities used for the various characters.
Perhaps he could have done with someone to cast an editorial and directorial eye over his work and performance, as some moments seem a little unrefined and the narrative is, at times, left somewhat unclear.
50 minutes is a good length for a one-man piece of theatre; in this case any longer would leave us wanting more plot exposition which the material does not offer. Though a few refinements would be an improvement it is still a cleverly put together production which is well acted – certainly one for the horror fans out there. ★★★☆☆ Sam Chipman 07/02/15
