Review: The Ocean at the End of the Lane
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The Ocean at the End of the Lane is Neil Gaiman's dark fairy-tale reflection of childhood memories and strange events that have been forgotten for decades.
Beginning with our unnamed narrator leaving a funeral wake to take a drive in the country he ends up at a place where he grew up as a small boy and his memories of his childhood are reawakened and the story begins in earnest.
What unfolds is a tale of mystical wonder and both loss and gain as part of the cycle of life.
A tragic death awakens a mysterious creature that may fulfil any man’s wish but at a cost far greater than they can afford.
The National Theatre touring production boasts an outstanding cast, not least the principal protagonists Keir Ogilvy as Boy, and Millie Hakasa as Letty who in particular like a reflection of her own character simply shines on stage.
Dad, played by Trevor Fox brings a world weariness and tempered sadness to his bookending role and Laurie Ogden's Sis is the funny but vulnerable younger sibling.
The older Hempstock family members, Mrs Hempstock, Kemi-Bo Jacobs and Old Mrs Hempstock, Finty Williams take on the mystical and magical with a forthright determination and resolve that anchors the tale in the "real" world while acting as gatekeepers to something else, be it good or bad.
And no fairy-tale would be complete without its own wicked witch and who better that Charlie Brooks can channel that malevolent energy as the story unfolds before us.
An enraptured audience were captivated by the trinity of a great cast, great story and great production drawing on everything from kitchen sink drama settings (with duly burnt toast), mystical creatures, some genuine horror, a wonderfully choreographed scene of magical transportation and some first class stage craft from the ensemble.
For those who have read the book, there is some alterations, with an older Boy and a timeshift of the period setting, but the core timeless story of childhood dreams and nightmares remains to asks the audience questions about memory and loss and whether our recollection of our formative experiences can ever be trusted as the truth.
Aberdeen were on their feet with a standing ovation for the cast in this five star performance, and deservedly so.
Tickets for the show which runs till August 26 are available from www.aberdeenperformingarts.com or the Box Office on 01224 641122
