By Sabrina Miller, first year English

Bristol Spotlights take on Tom Stoppard’s Arcadia - Sabrina Miller gives her thoughts...

This play, which explores philosophical theories, is perhaps one of the most complex shows I have ever seen. Set in both 1809 and 1993, it focuses on the research of Bernard Nightingale and Hannah Jarvis (1993) as they attempt to uncover the lives of Lord Byron, Septimus (a.k.a. the hermit) and Chater (1809). Director Phoebe Taylor has clearly set herself an impressive challenge.

The dominating set piece is a dining table which spans the width of the stage. Characters from both timelines interact with the same set, blurring the distinction between past and present. While the backdrop effectively creates the illusion of a room, at times the set feels cold and empty. The table is too far back, and the audience are never really given the chance to get up close and personal with the performance. The music is a bit abrupt, however the use of a gun-shot at the interval is effectively jarring.

"perhaps one of the most complex shows I have ever seen"

Angus Cooper phenomenally captures the narcissism of Bernard. His presence brings an electric energy to stage as he embodies the passionate, struggling academic. He somehow creates a character who is simultaneously attractive and dislikeable, an impressive feat. Equally, Liv Pockett’s portrayal of Thomasina deserves to be commended. She ably highlights her character’s youth through subtle movements such as fidgeting and swinging her feet under the table. Her attention to detail is truly admirable. It is hard to give all the performers due credit with such a large cast, however other note-worthy performances include Guy Woods’ portrayal of the down-trodden and beaten Valentine, as well as Kate Crisps’ hilarious depiction of the love-struck Chloe.

Characters in the 1809 timeline behave in an exaggerated and at times cartoonish manner. Whilst this effectively differentiates the relatable, modern-day characters from the melodramatic historical ones, it often comes at the expense of the characters’ realism. Lady Croom is often too poised and unnaturally seductive when she addresses her lines into the audience, while Brice similarly has an abnormally angry disposition.

"characters in the 1809 timeline behave in an exaggerated and at times cartoonish manner"

The final act of the play seems as if would be the most challenging to direct. Both timelines converge in triumphant unification, and actors from the two eras interact. It is an intricate balancing act, directed exceptionally well. However, at times the stage is chaotic - actors are clearly distracted by the overhead music, and some stumble over their lines. Whilst the scene is well crafted, it isn’t quite seamless.

Overall, the show is impressively professional. Whilst ambitious, Arcadia is - for the most part - well-executed, well choreographed and the performers exceptional. I would definitely recommend checking it out.

★★★★

(Featured image credits: Roman Mager)

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