When I saw Birdsong was coming to Aberdeen, I was drawn in by the promise of an epic story of love and loss. I’m ashamed to admit that I’ve never read Sebastian Faulk’s novel nor have I watched the BBC adaptation, so I didn’t know what to expect as I took my seat in His Majesty’s Theatre last night. Without giving too much away, it all starts in pre-First World War France when Englishman Stephen Wraysford (James Esler) becomes involved in a dangerous, all-consuming love affair with the beautiful Isabelle Azaire (Charlie Russell).
But when war breaks out, Wraysford leads his men through the trenches, the sprawling underground tunnels, and into the Battle of the Somme while clinging to his memories of Isabelle. And I can hand-on-heart say last night’s performance was one of the most hard-hitting theatre productions I’ve seen. Birdsong grips Aberdeen audience The set design is simple, yet versatile and effective, considering the scenes change so drastically throughout.
It was almost like the characters danced off stage carrying props to help with the transitions. I particularly liked the lowered ceiling to emulate the tunnel scenes, strengthened by the lighting, sound effects, and stage smoke. It felt like an ingenious way to use the space and a simple way to transform the stage.
But the acting really brought this story to life, the stellar cast delivering a completely heart-wrenching performance. While Esler has appeared on television before ( , and ) Birdsong is .