Hints at timeless folklore
6 / 10
While Joyce’s story is distinctly modern, underscored by Passenger’s music, it hints at timeless folklore, epitomised by Noah Mullins’ confident Balladeer, a wilful, mystical narrator, whose role changes as story gathers momentum. Addy is a solid and endearing presence as Fry. There’s a genuine sense of a journey to his performance as, step by painful step, he exposes the trauma that has haunted Harold’s life. It’s a curious and occasionally frustrating choice for the lead character to sing barely a note, but this is countered by the sensational Russell, who interprets Passenger’s songs with emotional integrity and a sublime narrative skill. An excellent ensemble undergo a myriad of quick-changes to play the people Harold meets along the way, notably Nicole Nyarambi as the inspirational Garage Girl and Daniel Crossley as an unexpectedly candid Silver-Haired Gentleman.
