Pomegranate @ Exchange Studio
THIS ambitious play from Linda Marshall Griffiths, getting its world premier at the Royal Exchange Studio, takes its name from the Greek myth of Demeter and Persephone.In this the young Persephone is stolen from her mother Demeter and condemned by easting a Pomegranate to spending part of each year in the Underworld.
Similarly, each of the characters in Pomegranate, which is set in an impoverished North Wales slate town, are cursed by their past. Phylis (Victoria Carling) returns to the town she left under a cloud years before.
Suitor
She believes that she has been summoned back by her mother Dahud (Jennifer Piercey), but finds her mother doesn't recognise her, while her daughter Denise (Lorna Lewis) and suitor Harry D (Rhys Matthews), react with loathing.
Only Phylis's brother Robert (Andy Haockley) offers support. Directed by Jo Combes and with striking set design from Becky Hurst, this is a gripping piece.
It strongly suggests that its writer, now Pearson Playwright in Residence at the Exchange, is a talent to watch.
Pomegranate is at the Royal Exchange Studio until Saturday, May 13. é8.50. Call 0161 833 9833.
Reviewed: Fri, 28 April, 2006
