‘A Strange Wild Song’
Performed by Rhum and Clay Theatre
Review by Bethan Roberts
Rhum and Clay Theatre Company bring alive this story of children playing at being soldiers amidst the real devastation of World War Two using a small ensemble and some excellent physical theatre. They master the difficult task of convincingly playing children, and the audience believes in them completely.
The piece was always engaging, but my main criticism is that it felt somewhat lacking in terms of the plot. The main story, of three brothers in a ruined French village who meet an American soldier, is interesting but some ideas felt overstretched. The story did not need adding to as its simplicity is part of its appeal, but I think it may have benefitted from being shorter. The modern day subplot initially seemed interesting, but didn’t really seem to go anywhere or serve any real need in the piece other than clunky exposition, but this is an aspect which could be improved by further development of this aspect of the piece.
These criticisms, are not, however, as serious as they may seem. I never lost my interest in the piece and some of the sections where the boys play at being soldiers are charming and innovative. Ultimately, this is a story that is thought-provokingly and skilfully told and, despite some minor plot weaknesses, still delivers a heartbreakingly sad conclusion.
Three Stars
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