A Song For Ella Grey recreates Orpheus’ and Eurydice’s myth in the Ouseburn, Tyneside. It also takes place on the Northumberland beaches. It’s a very localized story. This production, as well all other performances, was enhanced by my being a part of the local audience. This production was completely relatable. From the poetic descriptions of city to the familiar storyline of the coastlines. The story is universal and can transcend geographical boundaries. David Almond’s story of a young man growing up is perfectly merged with mythology: the entrance to Underworld is located beneath the Cluny bar, the Ouseburn has been transformed into Greece and Bamburgh beaches are now reimagined. Orpheus replaces the Ancient Greek God Orpheus with a mysterious Geordie with a gold voice and expansive horizons. Ella Grey replaces Eurydice as a young woman who is infatuated with Orpheus to the point of following him to the end.
A Song For Ella Grey is the story of an adolescent relationship and all of its destructiveness. The play does not tell a simple love story between a young girl and a teenage boy. It goes further to explore ambiguous sexuality. It comes so close, almost, to defining, labeling or explaining it, which is refreshing.
Claire, Ella’s childhood friend, talks about the love they have always shared. Claire, the only character that appears on stage, walks us through what happened between Ella’s and Orpheus. Amy Cameron, as Claire, is excellent. She keeps the audience engaged for the entire 90 minutes of the show, with a performance that demands dynamism, levity, poignancy and calmness. It was even more impressive because the second act took place in total darkness. It was only the delivery that at times felt rushed. Her performance was largely captivating.
The production isn’t a solo show. Claire is supported as the lead by a young ensemble made up of local actors, including myself. The chorus encourages Claire, as the story progresses. Sometimes we played as teachers, students, Cerberus of the Underworld, or Hades. The Young Company played a vital role in the second act, which was based entirely on auditory stimulation. This show was inspiring to me and I loved being a part. It was a real treat to watch the entire show from the audience.
This production is reminiscent of the joy and warmth of community theatre. Almond, in his talk after the show, said that it was important to remember that ancient stories don’t take place in other countries or places, but are happening right now. This is what he has done. This show brought many memories back, both painful and joyful, of growing-up. The show is filled with all kinds of emotions: falling in love, being rejected, celebrating, and adulation. This play is especially moving for local audiences, as it’s set in a theater with a story from their area.