WHOLE -Review- Arcola Theatre, London

WHOLE

Arcola Theatre, London 

14 November 2021

This whole show was a pleasant surprise. I was transported from Dalston Junction to many, many fantastic places, countries and homes around the world. Right from the first word Emma has the attention of the whole audience, when she tells a story or describes a scene, its like you’re there yourself. You can almost taste the smoke, and smell the orange. The very basic set and few props, together with Emma’s beautiful story telling, are used with impressive skill to paint the most vivid pictures. I was also very impressed with the visual imagery and symbolism. It is very clever. While this is a very sad topic, not least of all for Emma, she brings to the stage an uplifting vibe, that flows through the audience and captivates everyone.

The play starts with an empty stage, other than a few small props, a guitar and a circle of wood chippings. Emma walks on to a soundscape played over the speakers. You probably already know what the play is about by the time you’re sitting watching it, but she starts with a happy story, a beautiful memory of her sister. She alludes to how she dies, and then picks up the guitar and plays a song. The song is a sweet melody, an ode to her sister. Emmas’ performance talent seems to know no bounds. The song is a part of the story, and it too builds and paints a picture for you. Throughout the rest of the play, Emma regales stories and memories, dotted back and forth through her and her sisters’ lives. They have been on many adventures together and apart, and being taken on the many journeys with them is a treat. Perhaps my favourite scene was the retelling of them and a group of friends making mushroom tea. I related strongly to this and particularly enjoyed the use of the props and the various sensory experiences. Look out for that scene.

This was my first time at the Arcola Outside, and this was also a pleasant surprise. I wasn’t expecting much of the theatre, but there was a roof and walls and seats and a bar, so you could enjoy a show there whatever the weather. My only comment on the theatre is that there is a fair amount of noise from the road, which occasionally makes hearing hard, but that’s few and far between.

If you get a chance, and as travel has been scarce, let Emma and “Whole” transport you around the world. I guarantee you’ll be impressed.

David Selkirk

David also undertook an interview with writer and performer Emma Spearing

You can view it HERE