What does The Walking Dead and The Kings Arms Pub in Salford have in common? Apocalyptic fiction. The Thing with Feathers closely follows a couple, Sue and Emily, as they deal with the end of the world.
In the dimly lit attic space of The King’s Arms – The Thing with Feathers, written by Gulia Fincato and directed by Yanni Ng, transports you away from the familiar smell of ale and wine to a world where hope is dwindling and even the strongest of relationships are tested.
Running from the 18 until 20 of November, The Thing with Feathers has had its full-length premiere at The Kings Arms, Salford. The play follows the life of Sue, played by Michaela Short, and Emily, played by Fiona Scott, an artist and a poet.
This play shows us an insight into the couple’s relationship with hope. The apprehension of having it, the joy of embracing it and the fear of losing it.
Using flashbacks to the younger years of Em, played by Neve Kelman, and Susie, played by Tsen Day-Beaver, the audience can’t help but become deeply invested in their relationship.
The past and present versions of the couple perfectly mirror one another. We see Em grow from an apprehensive girl whom Susie encourages to be the best she can, into Emily, a bundle of energy who feels she needs to protect a scared Sue as she grieves the loss of the world she once knew.
The chemistry between Michaela Short and Fiona Scott makes each heartfelt conversation between them feel deeply emotional and compelling. The pair’s dynamic creates a convincing representation of a couple that have been together so long they know each other better than themselves.
Every time Tsen Day-Beaver spoke on stage, I was drawn to her. Despite some of the dialogue feeling unnatural, the emotive delivery and understanding of the script from Day-Beaver kept me hooked.
In contrast, her co-star Neve Kelman’s reactions and expressive presence while standing on stage and simply listening captivated me. She held my attention even when she had no lines. Kelman made me genuinely invested in Ems’ emotional experience.
The set, though being small, was filled with props that the cast seamlessly interacted with bringing the quaint venue alive. The detail of the set created an atmosphere that felt immersive and staggeringly real.
The Thing with Feathers is Longlisted for the Theatre503 International Playwriting Prize.
This is a beautiful play that makes you question yourself, what the future means for you and why we create art. The snippets of past and present allow all ages to relate to the characters and put themselves in their positions, making the story impactful no matter who you are.
It is a must-see for all lovers of art and those who enjoy leaving the theatre thought provoked.
★★★★☆
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