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Friday, November 14, 2008, 10:17
"Lord of the Flies at its most horrific shows us the most basic and primitive of societies where the weakest, the pacifists, the believers in democracy, are undefended against brute power," exclaims the show's programme.
When a group of boys are stranded on a desert island after a plane crash it could easily be an idyllic setting.
But the island becomes a dark and dangerous place as its habitants descend into barbarism and it becomes clear that only the strongest and most brutal will survive.
Arriving at the theatre and being confronted by hundreds of over-excited teenagers, I had a feeling I would be agitated by whispering youngsters and rustling sweet packets throughout the performance.
But this somewhat horrific play kept even the most restless of teenagers gripped, allowing me to enjoy the performance in peace.
Good natured young boys turning into a society of savages seems to grip their attention.
Pilot Theatre Company's award-winning Lord of the Flies was revived in celebration of its 10th anniversary. But despite some rave reviews, I felt it was a case of 'could do better'.
I felt Dominic Doughty was particularly believable as the overweight, glasses-wearing bully's dream known as Piggy.
Although it was Piggy's demise that prompted a murmur from a teenager behind me 'it was better than that in the book'.
This could be put down to readers' imaginations being more vivid and compelling than any creation on stage.
It didn't go unnoticed that every time Mark Knightley, playing Jack, left the stage he reappeared with smaller and smaller shorts. It seems that his descent into savagery required less clothing and more blood smeared over his almost semi-naked body.
His fist clenching and posturing were intense but he failed to project his voice, taking away from the powerful drama which could have been created by his role.
Music and lighting effects were good but they were somewhat let down by the 'one-size-fits-all' set.
This set was dominated by a large plane wreckage which I felt rather confusingly also provided the backdrop for woods, shelter and hunting grounds.
Admittedly, having not read the book, the production's plot was seen through a fresh pair of eyes .
Often I prefer this because I don't arrive at the theatre with any expectations.
But on this occasion I felt the plot lacked the substance I'm sure is provided in the written text.
It was hard to identify with characters I knew little about and seemed to turn into savages the second they picked up a spear.
One thing I was thankful for — it was mercifully short.
Much of audience appeared to enjoy the play. The teenagers were certainly kept entertained and the end was met with rapturous applause.
I was happy to spend my evening watching the production but I wouldn't rush back for a second viewing.
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