The Kite Runner at The Lowry: Review

The outstanding stage adaptation of Khaled Hosseini’s best-selling novel Kite Runner captivated audiences at The Lowry this week. 

The audience was transported back to 2009 in the heart of the United States, where a timeless tale was brought to life on a Salford stage for the first time.

Matthew Spangler’s adaptation of “The Kite Runner” captured the essence of Khaled Hosseini’s beloved novel, enrapturing audiences with its poignant narrative.

Directed by Giles Croft, this theatrical masterpiece unfolded with the finesse of a well-crafted kite soaring through the skies.

In a narrative driven by the eloquent voice of lead character Amir, portrayed by the talented Stuart Vincent, every word painted a vivid picture of friendship, betrayal, and redemption.

Set against the backdrop of Afghanistan on the brink of war, the stark contrast between Amir, the privileged son, and Hassan, his loyal servant, illuminated the complexities of their bond.

The absence of gimmicks was deliberate, allowing the raw emotions and haunting storyline to take centre stage.

As the characters grappled with guilt, loyalty, and the devastating consequences of their choices, the audience fell into a world where every heartbeat echoed with significance.

Stuart Vincent’s portrayal of Amir resonated deeply with me, his inner turmoil palpable with every word he uttered. As Amir grappled with the weight of his guilt, I found myself drawn into his internal struggle, feeling the echoes of his decisions reverberate within my own conscience.

It was a performance that transcended the stage, reaching out to touch something deep within my soul.

Similarly, Dean Rehman’s portrayal of Baba struck a chord within me, his transformation from proud patriarch to humble immigrant a poignant reminder of the fragility of identity in the face of adversity.

Through his nuanced performance, I was reminded of the sacrifices our parents make for us, and the often unseen burdens they carry on our behalf.

And in the role of Hassan and Sorab, Yazdan Qafouri’s performance resonated with a quiet strength that left a lasting impression.

Against a backdrop of simple yet evocative set design, the story unfolded seamlessly, transporting viewers from the bustling streets of Kabul to the tranquil shores of San Francisco.

William Simpson’s projections lent an ethereal quality to the production, while the live tabla music of Hanif Khan infused each scene with emotion and authenticity.

Yet, for all its brilliance, I couldn’t help but wonder if there were moments that could have been handled differently.

The simplicity of the set, while effective in its own right, left me longing for a greater sense of immersion. And while the live tabla music added a layer of authenticity to the production, I couldn’t help but feel that it sometimes overshadowed the dialogue, pulling me out of the moment rather than drawing me further in.

But these are minor quibbles in the grand scheme of things.

In a world filled with spectacle and gimmickry, “The Kite Runner” stands as a testament to the power of storytelling in its purest form. It is a journey that will stay with you, long after the last kite has fallen from the sky.

This unforgettable production is playing at The Lowry until Saturday, May 11.

Grab your tickets now and prepare to embark on a journey of redemption and forgiveness.