★★★★✰
The stars might not shine as brightly in London as they do in Newfoundland, but Finborough Theatre’s rendition of Salt-Water Moon is nonetheless mesmerising. Equal parts romantic and heartbreaking, David French’s play remains as timeless as ever.
When Jacob Mercer (Joseph Potter) turns up at Mary Snow’s (Bryony Miller) front door one August night, he knows he has a lot to apologise for. After running away over a year previously, Jacob returns to find his love is engaged to another. Mary is different too, less fanciful but wiser and, as he notes, colder. While he may have envisioned returning to a warm embrace, he could not be further from the truth.
Salt-Water Moon is one of French’s most famous scripts, part of the Mercer collection, which tracks the history of a family living in Newfoundland through three generations. Here, the characters are at their youngest, which means simultaneously at their most vulnerable and most hopeful. It is a gritty, though at times hilarious, exploration of love and the ways we hurt (and heal) each other.
One of the true joys of French’s writing is that the conversation, bar a few more particular phrases, could be one shared between contemporary lovers in 2022. There is a timeless quality to the words, the characters, and the world he builds. His work fizzes with real humanity, meaning the show feels less like watching characters on stage and more as though we’ve overheard a deeply private conversation. This is further supported by the simple yet impactful set design from Mim Houghton, which mimics a traditional front porch.
Peter Kavanah’s direction elevates the urgency within French’s script, as it feels like time is ticking away at their attempt to reconcile. Throughout the production, Potter and Miller shine. Potter has the charm of an old movie star, showcasing a fantastic ability to flit between a rogue with a devil-may-care attitude and a sweetheart. He commands the stage with every word, gesture and microexpression.
Miller is similarly brilliant, though her character must show greater restraint throughout. This makes for a performance that is incredibly considered; Miller isn’t playing Mary; she is Mary – and her heart breaks alongside her.
With palpable chemistry and passion packed into every minute on stage, it’s hard not to root for the characters. In short, Salt-Water Moon is a stunning production that audiences are sure to love.
Words by Abbie Grundy
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