And Before I Forget I Love You, I Love You

Park Theatre

Reviewed – 28th October 2018

★★★★

“a bold concept but, sticking closely to reality, Utton avoids it becoming too tragic or too comic”

 

Better known for his monologues in which he gets under the skin of famous historical figures – Adolf, Churchill, Dickens, Maggie – Pip Utton’s latest piece is on a more personal note. From first-hand experience of his mother’s decline and death, he creates a character to illustrate the harrowing effects of Alzeimer’s both on sufferers and carers, balancing the horror and pain of deterioration with moments of humour and lightness. ‘And Before I Forget I Love You, I Love You’ tells the story of a family struck by the disease, in which Michael’s (Pip Utton) account encompasses the many contradictory emotions felt as loved ones disappear long before they die.

Cleverly structured with recurring events and varied formats of expression, Utton’s writing guides us through the stages and consequences of Alzheimer’s through Michael’s experiences. His wonderful performance swings between comfort and unease, his expressive face portraying warmth, animosity, anxiety and despair. And he breaks the fourth wall, involving the audience in key episodes in Michael’s life and challenging them to face the frustration and anger which gradually seeps in. To top it all, the ending is a perfect balance of the inevitable and the unexpected.

The stage is set with two simple areas representing home and hospital. In one corner a vertical construction could be interpreted as the broken path of memory sweeping upward towards a mind of unlit lights. It is, in fact, from the theatre’s current production of Honour! Sensitively designed lighting follows Michael from place to place, transforming the scenes and moods; helplessness and fear is evoked and emphasised by the passive insistence from the hospital soundtrack and telephone.

A drama about Alzeimer’s is a bold concept but, sticking closely to reality, Utton avoids it becoming too tragic or too comic. He gives us serious food for thought without it being bleak, moving moments without resorting to the over-sentimental and touches of wit to make us smile. It is an hour to enjoy and then reflect on.

 

Reviewed by Joanna Hetherington

 

And Before I Forget I Love You, I Love You

Park Theatre

 

SIT-Up Sunday also included:

Dangerous Giant Animals | ★★★ | October 2018

 

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