The Children @ Dundee Rep
The Scottish premiere of Lucy Kirkwood's Tony Award-nominated play The Children does its intricate script justice
Lucy Kirkwood's play The Children was an immediate hit when it debuted in London in 2016, receiving critical praise and a nomination for Best Play at the 2018 Tony Awards. It's hardly surprising, then, that the show's Scottish Premiere has been hotly anticipated. Thankfully, this production does not disappoint. Produced by Dundee Rep and directed by the company's Artistic Director Andrew Panton, it's an intense yet familiar piece, with themes that have only grown in significance due to the current panic of the pandemic and the ongoing climate crisis.
Set in a post-apocalyptic world in the aftermath of a nuclear explosion, the play invites us to spend an evening with three scientists. They chat about growing up, share a few homemade drinks and ultimately confess some chilling truths. Kirkwood has written an intricate script, capturing the vulnerability many feel due to growing older. Her pacing is steady and the audience are kept enthralled by a combination of witty discourse and startling confessions, even as Kirkwood unravels the mysteries slowly.
Karen Tennent's charmingly decorated open kitchen set and Simon Wilkinson's use of warm candle lighting create a comfortable sort of intimacy, drawing the audience into the room and making them feel like a part of the story as it unfolds. The cast are also impressive, bringing each character completely to life. A special shout out goes to Irene Macdougall, for a moving portrayal of scientist Hazel that is both purposefully chaotic and calming.
Andrew Panton’s meticulous staging compliments the excellent script and the talents of the cast and crew. The inclusion of a joyful dance sequence during an emotionally heightened scene is an admirable portrayal of humanity at its core. Brought together, all of these elements work to create a poignant show that is both humorous and memorable. An evening spent in the company of these complex characters, asking questions about humanity that are more relevant than ever before, is an evening well spent.
The Children, Dundee Rep, until 19 Mar
dundeerep.co.uk/whats-on/the-children/