More Drama
Inspired by the Moscow theatre siege of 2002 and surrounding political events, "Touched by Fire" focuses upon three patients - a woman haunted by her husband, a scientist obsessed with time, and a stranger who believes he is death - and a nurse at a mental asylum. Doubling as characters in each other?s flashbacks, the inmates unravel their histories; with the audience watching on as their lives become interwoven, fuelled by the terrible events at a theatre across town.
The political element is, of course, highly pertinent to today?s climate of terrorism. However, interestingly, the writer, Ciaran McConville has said that although the play was originally a response to world events, it became ?more of a little story about the pain of love and grief?. This focus on storytelling is heightened by a minimalist set and simple black costumes, and indeed, it is the sensitive portrayal of the inmates stories which I found most compelling.
The characters, quite deliberately, do not always take account of each other, and it might be difficult to keep track of frequent changes in time and place. However the sense of intimacy encouraged by the character?s presence on stage at all times, should ensure that the play runs smoothly as a whole. The direction is clearly well thought out and the cast enthusiastic, slipping skilfully between their roles. Humour lightens the mood, which might otherwise be in danger of taking itself too seriously. But however you respond to this work, it would be difficult leave the theatre without "Touched by Fire" having made some impression.
29th Apr 2004