Review: AETHER, Jermyn Street Theatre
Photo credit: Giulia Ferrando
The concept of physics will draw a variety of reactions for all kinds of reasons. For some, it rekindles wondrous tales of the universe and study of space, time and the forces of nature. For others, it’s nothing more than a reminder of drab lessons in a school science lab. We’re lodged somewhere between the two extremes, but were pleasantly surprised by this play, written and directed by Emma Howlett. It’s already been a sizable hit at the Edinburgh Fringe and feels perfectly suited to the always welcoming Jermyn Street Theatre.
The story primarily follows Sophie, a PhD student who is hunting for dark matter at CERN (European Organisation for Nuclear Research). However, her quest is inextricably linked to a number of historical figures who have all investigated the ‘unknown’ in their own unique way. For example, Hypatia is an ancient Egyptian astronomer and mathematician, while Florence Cook was a 19th-century medium who claimed to materialise a spirit known as ‘Katie King’. What about Adelaide Herrmann who was a Vaudeville magician known as the ‘Queen of Magic’ or Vera Rubin, a pioneering astronomer who worked on galaxy rotation rates. All are featured here as myth and fact mingle in their determination to unlock the mysteries of the universe.
The cast comprised of Sophie Kean, Abby McCann, Anna Marks Pryce and Gemma Barnett perfectly execute 25 different roles between them. They pulse with energy and enthusiasm as a surprisingly complex narrative begins to unfold. It often falls back into academic mode as the audience are asked to draw on a sketch pad. Similarly, an overhead projector is used as a prop (again reliving painful memories of the classroom). A bright script keeps everyone on their toes and is, in places, very funny. This comes mainly from an academic environment to which everyone can relate. The historical figures portrayed also give the play added dimension. They will be unfamiliar to many and is enlightening to learn about characters that time has forgotten.
Whilst intelligent, engaging and hugely likeable, the play may have limited appeal for a mass audience. The real entertainment value relies on the viewer’s understanding and appreciation of physics. If it’s not your bag then you won’t get much from it. But for anyone with a fascination for the subject, it will be a revelatory and wholly original take on the notion of physics.
*** Three stars
Reviewed by: Brian Penn
Aether plays the Jermyn Street Theatre until 4 April, with further info here.
