Plymouth Theatre Review

Easy to Follow: 5

Family Friendly: 4

Must see: 5

Title: Cassie and the Lights

Venue: Theatre Royal Plymouth

Date: 24/04/2024

Cassie and the Lights is a gut-wrenching tale (based on a true story) written and directed by Alex Howarth, that follows the story of teenager Cassie who desperately tries to retain custody of her two younger sisters when their mother abandons them, leaving them to fend for themselves. The themes expressed in this play are gritty, hard-hitting and emotive, with the story unfolding through the eyes of the three siblings as they navigate the reality that their mother may not be coming back. This powerful, emotional rollercoaster starts before the audience are even fully seated with the actors introducing themselves to the audience, talking, playing and offering party rings for them to eat! This interaction with the audience continues throughout the show, fostering a deeper sense of involvement with the story making the gut-wrenching moments all that more poignant and touching. This sweet and endearing introduction to the characters oozed with playful, childish whimsy and engaged the audience with the actors perfect portrayal of childhood innocence. 

The clever set design was versatile, imaginative and extremely effective, consisting of piles of suitcases, hanging sheets and a washing line complete with children’s clothes. The sheet doubled up as a backdrop for projections which beamed out of a suitcase, adding a playful aspect to the set, and enforcing the sense that this was a story told through the eyes of children. The suitcases were equally charming and playful, doubling up as a puppet stage and a bowling alley that the characters interacted with throughout. Light and sound were also used extremely effectively. Bright lights mixed with dimmer lights, allowed the lighting to reflect the lighthearted and darker parts of the show to brilliant effect. The enchanting use of live music amplified the more poignant moments with a subtlety and grace that really swept the audience up into the story and embroiled them into the intensity of the scenes. The use of a loop pedal was a light hearted and unique moment in the story, which for me really highlighted the juxtaposition between Cassie the care giver and Cassie the teenager. It was a subtle, fleeting moment in the overall story, but a powerful and unique ploy nonetheless. The music and sound design was complex without distracting from the story or overpowering the scenes, instead adding an additional layer to the performance and fostering a deeper connection to both the characters and story.

Alex Brain’s portrayal of Cassie was devastatingly beautiful, delivering a harrowing, emotional and charming performance that touched the hearts of the audience. Their colossal portrayal really sucker punched you, drawing you into the piece with their impeccable acting and storytelling. They really were pure perfection, taking the audience through an array of emotions and delivering punchy and tormenting monologues that left me in awe of their raw talent. Presenting deeply moving and vulnerable monologues that showcase such an array of emotions is no mean feat and I was blown away by the skilful ease in which Brain navigated the story, solidifying for me that they are a truly exceptional talent in the world of theatre.

Likewise the portrayal of both Kit and Tin were equally impressive, bringing a child like charm and joy to the show, cutting through emotional scenes with humour and childish innocence. Martha Walker as Kit was a joy to behold, bringing humour to a piece that would otherwise be overwhelming sad. Her fun, crazy and hyperactive portrayal of Kit cut through the hard scenes with an abundance of charm. I often found myself fighting back the tears, just watching her at the back of the stage (in her own little world) and laughing at her character even in moments when the story was devastatingly hard hitting and difficult to watch. Helen Chong as Tin shone in her role, perfecting the balance between childlike play and a more grown up personae than that of her sister. With an incredible blend of innocence and maturity she really captured the essence of growing up with remarkable precision. Walker and Chong had a palpable chemistry creating a dynamic duo that endeared them to the audience from the moment they stepped onto the stage. I did not doubt for one second that it was children I was watching, which a testament to Walker & Chong’s believable acting skills.

Audience interaction that started with Tin and Kit was cleverly woven into the fabric of the play, fostering a profound connection to the story that transcends the traditional boundaries of theatre. From thought provoking moments of reflection to opportunities for dialogue and engagement, spectators we actively invited to participate in the unfolding narrative which enriched the understanding of the characters and their triumphs and struggles alike. By blurring the lines between performer and spectator, writer Alex Howarth invites the audience to not just observe the narrative but actively take part in it. 

Cassie and the lights is an absolute triumph of writing, acting and theatre, bringing together all aspects of the craft in a clever and nuanced way to create this truly mesmerising, enchanting and memorable production, standing as a remarkable testament to the transformative and cathartic power of theatre. With poignant portrayals of love, loss, family and resilience the show expertly explores the unbreakable bonds of family, captivating the inviting the audience into the discussion and leaving a profound impact. Cassie and lights is more than just a play – its an experience that transcends theatre through its alluring storytelling and deeply talented cast, leaving a mark on all who experience it.  May the lights shine bright on Cassie, Tin and Kit for many nights to come!