DramaLondonReview

FIREBIRD – Kings Head Theatre, London

Reviewer: Monica Cox

Director: Owen Lewis

Writer: Richard Hough

Set in 1970s Soviet Union, FIREBIRD follows the story of Roman and Sergey. As friendship turns into love, the threat of five years of hard labour for homosexual relations looms over them. Lieutenant Roman Matvejev fraternises with his subordinate Sergey, and tensions come to a head on New Year’s Eve when they break camp rules to have ‘one last drink’ in Roman’s quarters. A year later in Moscow, Sergey is training to be an actor, and Roman turns up out of the blue. Even being away from the oppressive military environment, the drama, based on the 2021 film directed by Peeter Rebane, continues to unfold as they continue to face many obstacles in the way of their love.

The men’s friend Luisa is portrayed as a self-assured, quick-witted character with a strong sense of Estonian identity, while Roman exudes stoic authority and Sergey, an aspiring actor, brings an intelligent charm. While their camaraderie as friends is convincing, the chemistry falters in their romantic moments, lacking the passion and emotional depth necessary to fully make their star-crossed love truly credible. As a result, the steamy intimate scenes feel forced, and the absence of emotional resonance in pivotal moments detracts from the play’s impact. Nevertheless, Nigel Hastings stands out as Colonel Kuznetsov, delivering a nuanced performance that shapes the others’ professional and personal trajectories.

Richard Hough’s writing compellingly charts this fascinating narrative, skillfully blending humour with the historical weight of the story. The dialogue is crisp and efficient, maintaining a brisk pace, though this directness occasionally undercuts the gravity of the play’s more poignant moments. However, this is not the case with the ending which surprises with an emotionally charged and moving twist.

Under Owen Lewis’s direction, the staging sometimes feels contrived, and the rapid pacing sacrifices moments of tenderness and comedic potential. However, Jac Cooper’s evocative, cinematic score enhances the seamless transitions and grounds the story in its historical setting.

FIREBIRD vibrantly brings to life this touching true story, offering an entertaining and brave exploration of forbidden love. While it falls short in delivering emotional depth, it remains an original and compelling story to witness.

Runs until 9 February 2024

The Reviews Hub Score

Entertaining story of forbidden love

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The Reviews Hub - London

The Reviews Hub London is under the editorship of Richard Maguire. The Reviews Hub was set up in 2007. Our mission is to provide the most in-depth, nationwide arts coverage online.

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