Community and Change: ‘Dancing at Lughnasa’ Review

★★★★★

Dancing at Lughnasa, currently playing at the Olivier Theatre at the National Theatre, is a stunning production that showcases the power of storytelling and the magic of theatre. Written by Brian Friel, the play is a heartfelt exploration of family, community, and the ties that bind us together.

In the charming countryside of 1936 Ireland, in the fictional village of Ballybeg, Dancing at Lughnasa takes us into the lives of five unmarried sisters sharing a cosy cottage. Kate, Maggie, Agnes, Rose, and Chris know the struggles of scraping by, but their unbreakable bond brings them solace and moments of pure bliss amid the ups and downs.

Everything changes when their long-lost brother, Jack, returns after 25 years as a missionary in Africa. His sudden reappearance rattles their peaceful existence, unearthing buried conflicts and tensions that simmer beneath the surface. As the sisters navigate this new dynamic, they also grapple with a changing world creeping into their traditional way of life. The clash between old and new forces them to confront their own desires and dreams. Dancing at Lughnasa beautifully captures the delicate dance between tradition and progress, taking us on a heartfelt journey as the sisters face the consequences of their choices and the impact of the outside world on their close-knit community.

Despite the Olivier Theatre’s large size, the cast manages to create an intimate atmosphere that draws the audience into their world. The actors’ skilful performances, led by Louisa Harland as the strong yet vulnerable Agnes, Blaithin Mac Gabhann as the nuanced Rose, and Siobhan McSweeney as the warm and comedic Maggie, make the space feel warm and inviting. Justine Mitchell’s Kate provides a grounding force, while Ardal O’Hanlan’s Jack adds layers of complexity. Alison Oliver’s Chris brings fierce energy, and Tom Riley’s Gerry is both charming and heartbreaking. Tom Vaughan-Lawler’s Michael, the narrator, adds depth and meaning to the proceedings.

Under the masterful direction of Josie Rourke, the production shines. Rourke’s deep understanding of the play’s themes and characters is evident throughout. She creates an intimate connection between the audience and actors through meticulous attention to detail. The set design (Robert Jones), lighting (Mark Henderson), and sound transport us to the world of the play, while Rourke’s direction allows the actors to fully inhabit their characters, conveying both the comedy and tragedy with grace.

In addition to the exceptional acting and direction, the music, dancing, and choreography in Dancing at Lughnasa add an enchanting layer to the production. The musical score sweeps through the air, evoking the emotions of the characters and capturing the essence of the Irish setting and the time period. The choreography, skilfully crafted by Wayne McGregor, creates a mesmerizing visual tapestry on stage. The actors’ graceful movements and precise footwork during the dance sequences further enhance the storytelling, reflecting the characters’ joys, sorrows, and the vibrant spirit of the Lughnasa festival. McGregor’s choreography, paired with the evocative music, brings a dynamic energy to the production, elevating it to a truly immersive and captivating experience for the audience.

Dancing at Lughnasa, with its rich portrayal of a specific time and place, becomes a universal tribute to the enduring power of human connection and the bonds of family. As the characters come together to dance and celebrate, we are reminded of the joy and gratitude that love and community bring. In the words of Michael, “But for a few moments that night, we were all together… It was a night that none of us would ever forget.”

Words by Lisamarie Lamb

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