Footfalls and Rockaby – Jermyn Street Theatre, London

Writer: Samuel Beckett

Director: Richard Beecham

Two of Beckett’s later works, Footfalls and Rockaby lay bare the feelings of loneliness and isolation, feelings most will understand far more acutely because of the events of the past year. Indeed, had it been possible to stage in the midst of the pandemic, it would likely have been far too upsetting, too near, too immediate.

Of the two, Footfalls is the show that will likely strike the more familiar chord with post pandemic audiences. Trapped in an endless, purgatorial state, the protagonist paces to and fro along a narrow strip of floor; each footstep a tribute to a spirit bereft of hope. Charlotte Emmerson plays the role of the desperate May with a tenderness that’s exquisite and heart breaking in equal measure.

After that follows Rockaby. A ten-minute long tribute to a dying woman without a voice, slowly edging closer to the end with each rock of the chair in which she sits. Portrayed by Siân Phillips, the text is spoken almost entirely via voiceover, pre-recorded by her. While on the one hand having so much of the dialogue pre-recorded (as stipulated by Beckett) does make the piece feel a little less ‘live’ than one would like, it serves its purpose rather well.

Both pieces are faithful reproductions of the original text, with the sound (by Adrienne Quartly), lighting (by Ben Ormerod) and set and costume (Simon Kenny) perfect accompaniments to the piece. Beckett’s instructions in this regard are rather restrictive but executed flawlessly.

With such specific instructions given by Beckett, it does make directing the show a challenge, working within such a narrow scope. However, director Richard Beecham manages to tease out every morsel, and the result is a show which must be seen to be understood.

It is perfect for a small, intimate space, and in London, the Jermyn Street Threatre is one of the best. In January this year they were awarded Fringe Theatre of the Year by the Stage Awards, making them the first fringe theatre to win the award twice, and it is well deserved. If you have the opportunity to see this show, or anything else at this venue you won’t be disappointed. They are quickly earning a reputation as a house that produces shows of enviable quality in the heart of Piccadilly.

Runs until 20 November 2021