Country Music, Omnibus Theatre - ★★★★☆ - Until June 23, 2019


There is a terrific sense of reality in Simon Stephen's 80 minute play. There is not a wasted word as we journey through Jamie's tragic life. We first meet him as a hoodlum teenager before jumping on through other episodes in his life. As Jamie, Cary Crankson gives us a tour-de-force as the damaged youth becoming a damaged man. His speech and body language are used to great effect. Jamie's crime was committed out of the best of motives – to protect his kid brother from a molester – he pays for it for the rest of his life. The dialogue is very believable throughout and Crankson is very well supported by Rebecca Stone and Frances Knight as the most important women in his life. Dario Coates is outstanding as Matty – the kid brother who has to deliver some devastating news. Scott Le Crass directs with an assured hand and isn't afraid to use silence to great effect. Liam Shea's design initially looks beautiful, but then during the course of the play I was not certain whether it represented a boxing ring or The Dartford Crossing. A visit to Clapham is highly recommended to see this little gem.

 Reviewed by D.S.J.

  Our Score:  ☆☆☆☆★ 

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WHEN, WHERE, GETTING THERE:
Until June 23, 2019
Mon - Sat: 7:30 pm, Sat: 3:30 pm, Sun 4:30 pm
Omnibus Theatre
Nearest tube: Clapham Common
www.countrymusictheplay.co.uk
Map & Location: 1 Clapham Common North Side, Clapham, London SW4 0QW, UK

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