Writer: Alice Malseed
Director: Emily Foran
The Half Moon is a one woman show performed that clocks in at a tight 60 minutes. Written by Alice Malseed it captures succinctly the resourcefulness of the feminine voices who have been voiceless throughout the generations in Northern Ireland. The writing tackles gritty life issues, layer upon layer from abortion to ‘absent men’ in the lives of working class Belfast women. The play creates the atmosphere, geography and the D.N.A. of Belfast in witty rhetoric that connects the generations from World War 2 to the present day.
Ruby Campbell conveys beautifully each character and her performance takes us into their world, bringing to life the essence of conflict in each women’s lives, who negotiate challenges with stoic fortitude.
The set design is arresting in its simplicity, as a luminescent full moon dominates the stage, changing its aura as the layers of the plot is revealed within the drama.
I have one reservation and it is an observational point of view as an audience member. Sometimes the direction by Emily Foran, although sensitively present to the play, does not clarify the threads connecting the character’s stories, and the passing of time. Sometimes we were still connecting with one character when another transition emerged, and the action within the drama moved forward too quickly while we were trying to discern the difference between one scene and another. It needed to be defined more perhaps through positioning of the actor on stage or the use of a minimal prop to highlight the difference and the passing of time.
Lighting design by Alan Mooney transports the action of the play from a troubled Belfast to a warmer climate where the character can realise her hopes and ambitions, away from prejudice and the conflict within the North. Vibrant choreography executed by Paula O’Reilly, connects us into the characters world, most especially at the poignant moment of being able to say ‘I feel free’.
Ran Until 29th July 2023.
The Review's Hub Score
Beautifully Performed
