‘Red Sky at Sunrise: Laurie Lee in Words and Music’ recently played at the York Grand Opera House, inviting the audience on a fascinating exploration of Laurie Lee’s life and experiences through his evocative prose and beautifully chosen music.
Having approached the production with a slight degree of trepidation I was immediately struck by the ability of the carefully selected, and wonderfully performed, music to create a real sense of presence and atmosphere at each stage of the journey through the author’s life.
The production centres in Lee’s remarkable experiences, narrated with true artistry by the performances of Anton Lesser and Charlie Hamblett. Lesser, with his finely crafted and nuanced delivery, imbues the seasoned Lee with a quiet wisdom, while Hamblett captures the youthful energy and curiosity of Lee’s early life. Their portrayals are a privilege to watch, seamlessly transitioning between characters and enriching the narrative with both depth and humour.
Of course, it is Lee’s own words that form the heart of the performance, around which the fabric of the production is woven. The production very adeptly balances powerful passages from the author’s work with evocative musical interludes. The chosen pieces, including ‘Greensleeves’, ‘Danny Boy’ and ‘Asturias’ perfectly compliment the emotional texture of Lee’s journey and give the audience a real sense of presence in the moment. Far from overshadowing the prose, the music very successfully manages to transport the audience, whether to the idyllic English countryside of ‘Cider with Rosie’ or to the stark landscapes of the Spanish civil war.
One of the production’s triumphs lies in its ability to seamlessly integrate Lee’s internal world with his external experiences. The audience experiences Lee grappling with his choices, his yearning for adventure, and the profound impact of his travels. This introspective element, accentuated by the masterfully performed interplay between the older and younger Lee, adds a of depth that truly resonates.
Of further note is the quality of the musical performances by the members of the Orchestra of the Swan under the artistic directorship of David Le Page and the exquisitely enchanting guitar pieces performed by Mark Ashford
This production of ‘Red Sky at Sunrise’ is more than just a biographical performance; it is a celebration of the human spirit’s resilience and the transformative power of travel and artistic expression. For those who appreciate a well-told story, beautifully rendered with a nuanced selection of music and an element of nostalgia, this production is a must-see.
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