The Ocean At The End Of The Lane

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From the mind that brought us Sandman, Good Omens, Stardust, and that episode of Doctor Who were the TARDIS transforms into a sexy woman, comes a brand new National Theatre production unlike any we’ve seen before. Better grab your snorkel and flipper because we’re about to dive headfirst into The Ocean At The End Of The Lane, and it might get a bit spooky!

Based on the novel of the same name, this production is as imaginative and memorable as you can expect from a renowned author such as Neil Gaimen. Famous for his expansive fantasy worlds, that often have darker takes on fairy tales and fables, Gaimen has produced more beloved works than most writers can dream of. Now with this latest theatrical adaptation, we have a chance to dive into his mind and see his expansive imagination come to life.

The show centres around a man returning to his childhood home for his father’s funeral, where he visits the pond at the end of the lane, something his old friend Lettie once called an ocean. A place where anything is possible.

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Although the plot is magical in nature, it’s tone is dark and at times unsettling, offering a rare performance that can amaze and scare the audience in equal measure. The tone is not unlike Stranger Things, but with the theatre and drama turned up a couple of notches.

The production is a visual masterpiece, packed full of striking imagery, stage trickery and puppet mastery. The use of lighting and sound hooks the audience into the plot, and the cast captivates our attention throughout. The puppets designed by Samuel Wyer are breath-taking and used to dazzling effect, while the on stage magic choreographed by Jamie Harrison elicited numerous gasps from the audience, already lost in the wonder of this fairy-tale world.

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Although I am no dancer myself, and my knowledge contemporary dance is unfortunately minimal, I really appreciated the beautiful performances and dynamic movements of the entire cast. In particular that of the two leads Millie Hikasa and Keir Ogilvy, and the ensemble when they operated the puppets. There was no moment of this production that was not filled with visual spectacle, magical imagery, or striking performances. So much so that at times it was difficult to know where to look!

Overall, I loved The Ocean At The End Of The Lane. I had high expectations which were somehow all met. I’d been ready to see a magical tale from the mind of brilliant and beloved author, brought to life by the world renowned and award winning National Theatre company, giving me a hint of Stranger Things nostalgia whilst being innovative and unique… and remarkably it managed to deliver all of this and more. All ages need to get themselves down the Bay this week because this is a spectacle you will not want to miss.

The Ocean at the end of the Lane is  playing at the Wales Millennium Centre until 3rd June- www.wmc.org.uk

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