The War of the Worlds - created by Rhum + Clay and written with Isley Lynn
Location: Wilton's Music Hall
Company: National Youth Theatre REP
Date seen: 19/10/24, matinee
I was on the NYT backstage lighting course this summer, and although I couldn't meet the time commitments for the REP shows this year, I wanted to support the company by seeing their work. AND WOW I'm glad I went. I was characteristically unprepared and hadn't read The War of the Worlds (or listened to the radio play!). Luckily I met the family of Paddy Lintin (who multi-roled in the play) and they explained the book/play/film/adaptation situation. However, I wouldn't say it's vital to know the context of Well's work in order to enjoy this performance, so don't worry if you haven't!
The play cleverly parallels the unlikely impact of Well's radio play with misinformation circulated during the 2016 USA election. We follow Meena as she tries to make it big as a podcaster while documenting the rift Well's play caused in one family. As the story develops we begin to see how panic over an alien invasion relates to the present day. And the final implication of the audience in this cycle is genius - as Meena finally agrees to go ahead with her podcast, we realise that the whole story that was meant to reveal the truth is built on the lie she told to uncover it.
The acting was of a great standard and I was impressed by how skillfully they moved between stories and charaters. Wilton's is a really beautiful venue, and I loved that I could tell what each light was doing because of it being on the smaller side. On that note, my favourite thing about the whole play was the placement of the sound desk above the stage. It was so fun to see Sam (NYT backstage member and sound operator) included in the play as part of the podcast studio, and it really brought home the idea of the whole narrative being constructed, not something just to be accepted as the plain truth. Very cool!!
I also had a lot of fun thinking about the lighting and projections - they really sold the different time periods and focus on different characters. And when the panels of the backdrop were lit form behind it was really gorgeous. Also loved that the house lights were just profiles pointing at the ceiling (and some nice fairy lights), I always find that fun. Overall really wish I could go and see it again!
Reccomendation: 100% worth seeing. Not only is it important to support young actors and technicians starting their careers, the play is genuinely engaging and impressive. Tickets are available here from £12.50 with discounts available for students, under 16s, over 60s, job seekers, and Equity/BECTU/MU members.