THIS REVIEW FIRST APPEARED IN THE STAGE
The magnificent voice of Paul Robeson dominates this revival by Hijinx of their 1999 success. Those effortless deep dark tones, unforgettably captured on record, are as moving and inspiring today as ever they were.
Young Gethyn fantasises about how his father, whom he believes died a hero in the war, once sang with Robeson. So when a black man comes to his mining valley on road construction work, he is sure the famous singer and activist is returning to Wales to lend moral support to the hard-pressed miners.
On this unlikely premise Greg Cullen builds a series of confrontations that has much to say about race prejudice, social isolation, politics and above all, human relationships under economic pressure.
Chris Morgan’s heart-warming production moves with commendable pace, the contrasts between light and dark moments being well judged, while the flights of fancy and poetic reflection are never allowed to go over the top. Less successful is the marrying of the black and white clips from the 1940 Robeson film Proud Valley with the stage action. Nostalgic, but jarring too.
Duane Hannibal gives a charismatic portrayal of the outsider, full of laid-back charm and humour as he strives to lead the engaging Gethyn of Greg Llewellyn Arthur out of his overheated dream world into harsh reality. Notable performances too from Jessica Sandry as the spirited mother and Lee Mengo as her calculating lover with a distinctly nasty streak.
The stark setting is by James North, with Paula Gardiner the musical director |
