Theatre Upstairs presents its new production: The Bells of, a twisted play (or an intriguing play with a twist, you’ll have to decide for yourself) by Bez Kinte, a collective group of international artists
The Bells of, written by Barry McEvoy and directed by Louisa Sanfey, is a story full of symbolism and metaphors.
The Bells of is a story where the blind see clearer than the seeing ones. In a small-town America, in a toy factory, a middle-aged businessman (played by Jed Murray) is trying to negotiate the perfect doll eyes with his partners from a third-world country. His young assistant Lee-Ann (played by Sarah Morris), the one who hasn’t fully sold her soul yet to the world of trading, goods and money, is a very caring and loving person with a passion for bells. Lee-Ann spends all of her free time in a hospital near the factory, where she plays with some of the patients and also brings them for daily walks. Ida (played by Aislinn O’Byrne) is one of those patients. Ida is blind and deeply religious. She does not accept any gifts, her faith does not permit it. Ida loves going for a walk with Lee-Ann, who she asks to describe people and places they are passing by. According to Ida, Lee-Ann “is shitty at describing”. But they have their moments of fun. Arthur (played by Liam Burke) is another patient of the hospital; he is also an ex-worker in the toy factory. One day, during a rodeo match, he asks Lee-Ann to google how to build a bomb.
I’ll leave it to you to find out what and why he wants to blow up! The story might be darker than you expect.
The Bells of is a very interesting play, which leaves you with a lot to think about. It’s definitely one of those plays that you leave thinking “what the hell just happened?” and “will there be a second part?”. Especially the latter one, because I would love to see a continuation.
As much as all four actors are, the set (designed by Naomi Faughnan) is a very essential part of this production. The appearing and disappearing easily recognisable images on the multiple vintage screens add to the mysterious and eerie atmosphere on the stage. While the naked headless barbies made me realise how dark of a place this factory is and maybe Ida is right in her unacceptance of toy gifts.
All four actors created very captivating and watchable characters, but Ida deserves a special mention. I suppose it’s a part of both McEvoy’s and O’Byrne’s merit. Ida is just a very interesting, unusual character that you would like to know more about. I heard or read somewhere that originally that part was written for a boy. To be honest, I couldn’t imagine it to be portrayed by anybody but O’Byrne (fantastic casting decision!). She just has this strange edgy slightly mysterious air around her. I saw her earlier this year in a different play in Theatre Upstairs, and yet again she gave a very memorable performance. And so did Morris in King Lear. Her fool was unforgettable.
The Bells of grabs your attention from the very first moment and doesn’t allow it to wander off even for a second. It’s a beautifully constructed and directed piece of theatre that challenges the audience with its story and characters.
The Bells of runs in Theatre Upstairs until November 21st. Hallowe’en might be over, but what can be creepier than a small blind girl and a toy factory? Find out for yourselves. For more info or to book tickets: http://www.theatreupstairs.ie/the-bells-of
Unforgettable Lines 