Situated in the South Atlantic Ocean, the British Overseas Territory of Tristan da Cunha, a remote group of volcanic islands is home to roughly 264 residents and has over 200 years worth of history. The island’s first settlement in 1810 having rooted the nation’s foundations. Drawing on the island’s turbulent past, Zinnie Harris pens Further than the Furthest Thing.
Courtesy of Marc Brenner.
A billowing, coastal air immediately grips the senses. George Dennis’ arresting, atmospheric sound design pinpoints us on the remote climes of Tristan da Cunha. Paired up with Soutra Gilmour’s distinctive amphitheatre inspired staging, the production’s choice to stage the production in the round beautifully encapsulates the island placed scenario. Ian William Galloway glazes the evening with mesmeric projected visuals, that of the island and a compass something that really defines the show, alongside crashing waves.
Further than the Furthest Thing is a slow burner, Harris able to cultivate an environment heavy on the things unsaid. Tensions steadily surfacing and ugly truths some way or another finding the light of day. The show’s language is rooted in the island’s local dialect making for a truly authentic experience. Here we’re mid World War, Jennifer Tang clasping onto the communal feeling of the island yet the isolated energy of it. Shapla Salique’s live vocals a component of the evening tying to the show’s ethereal quality.
Through couple Bill (Cyril Nri) and Mill’s (Jenna Russell) eyes, we gauge a community’s cynicism and caution towards a more industrial nation, their nephew Francis (Archie Madekwe) a spritely, hopeful energy who on the other hand views the idea of industry as a positive move in the right direction. His introduction of Mr Hansen (Gerald Kyd), a no nonsense entrepreneur from South Africa disrupting the flow of the otherwise serene island. Francis’ partner Rebecca (Kirsty Rider) a hearty reminder of what establishing roots means in an ever increasing industrial world.
Written by Lucy Basaba.
Further than the Furthest Thing is currently showing until Saturday 29th April 2023 at the Young Vic. To find out more about the production, visit here…
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