|
|
 |
| |
Poetic debate in Hampstead
THE LAST NIGHTINGALE
Upstairs at the Gatehouse
COCKNEY, seditious and vulgar do not seem appropriate terms to describe the Romantic poet John Keats.
However, critics at that period were not enthusiastic about his work. American Dianna Lefas’ piece describes how Keats, against all odds, “dedicated his life to the determination of that he felt within” and the love of his short life who inspired him, Fanny Brawne.
The action takes place mostly in Hampstead between 1816 and 1820, the actual Gatehouse pub (in Highgate Village) where the play is being staged was a known haunt of Coleridge – a resident who would invite Shelley, Byron and Keats to recite poetry and imbibe.
The first act introduces John Keats to the radical poet Percy Shelley and the libertine Lord Byron (“I’m just on my way to visit Lady Caroline Lamb”).
A reflective debate ensues between the poets (later known as part of the Romantic Movement) in which the author contrasts their differing philosophical concepts of life and their approaches to art.
The pace alters in the second act when Keats discovers that he has tuberculosis and his love for Fanny is truly established.
Director Mitch McGowan’s production at times creaked and I wonder if Act I, that seemed too long and somewhat turgid, could have been trimmed. Obscure terms such as “tangible entity” and “enigmatic energy” seemed pretentious but then, like all artistic movements, there is a certain amount of precious “tangible enigma”.
Actor Ambjorn Elder has the right degree of angst for the role of Keats and Kate Burdette plays Fanny as a charming minx. Lord Byron was played with supercilious ease and swagger by Lorcan O’Toole.
Until April 14
020 8340 3488
|
 |
Check Prices, Availability & Book Online
Receive Online Discounts and Instant Confirmation |
|
|
|
