Review: TIL DEATH DO US PART by Safaa Benson-Effiom at Theatre503 until 21 May 2022
‘truly gripping drama’ ★★★★★
A show about every parent’s worst nightmare, the death of a child, and how the couple cope with the aftermath. From the opening scene the show is presented as a mystery; something has happened here that needs to be explained and in the course of the 90 minutes we find out.
We find out about the relationships within the family and the full tragedy of the story. It is a truly gripping drama right from the beginning and I was not the only person leaning forward from time to time to be sure of grasping every single moment of the show.
All the actors are perfect in their representations of the characters giving a true depiction of real family life. It’s neither perfect all the time nor hideous all the time. These are real people with real emotions.
The direction by Justina Kehinde is outstanding. Not least because she has chosen a particular style which gives full importance to every movement, gesture and word. It’s as though we are watching birds flying in slow motion. We do not miss a single breath or oscillation. She is aided by having a beautiful script from Safaa Benson-Effiom on a terrifically difficult subject, portrayed with such honesty.
All the creatives have worked together to flesh out the show and give a very unified whole. (The weeds in the curtains are inspired). It’s a tough subject but such a worthwhile piece of theatre, which should not be missed.
Get along to see it if you can!
Read our interview with Safaa Benson-Effiom and Justina Kehinde here.
Photography: Steve Gregson
TIL DEATH DO US PART by Safaa Benson-Effiom
Theatre503, 503 Battersea Park Rd, London SW11 3BW
3 - 21 May 2022
Box Office: https://theatre503.com/whats-on/til-death-do-us-part/#tickets
Writer Safaa Benson-Effiom
Director Justina Kehinde
Set & Costume Designer Emeline Beroud
Lighting Designer Chris McDonnell
Composer & Sound Designer Tom Foskett-Barnes
Movement Director Tian Brown-Sampson
Stage Manager Summer Keeling
Production Managers Misha Mah & Toby Smith
Producer Darcy Dobson Productions and Theatre503
Cast Jude Chinchen, Richard Holt, Danielle Kassaraté
Twitter @darcyjdobson, @theatre503, #503TilDeath
Reviewed by Heather Jeffery, Editor of London Pub Theatres Magazine
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A ONEOFF Special Award has been awarded to London Pub Theatres Magazine and Editor Heather Jeffery for providing a vital forum for highlighting the excellent work that happens in rooms in pubs, with sensitive editing, and an acute sense of the importance of tiny fringe venues to the health and development of British Theatre