Review: THE SUPPLIANT WOMEN, Young Vic

Remaining true to the traditions of Aeschylus's time, The Suppliant Women company consists of three professional actors, a professional musician and a recruitment of locals - who have trained and rehearsed in a choral-like manner, to create a 50-piece ensemble that roars on the Young Vic stage.

Before the production starts the audience receives libations. John Glen, Minister for Arts, Heritage and Tourism, thanks everyone who has in some way paid for this production. He announces the names involved in covering the costs, and then pours wine on the front edge of the stage - another tradition.

Twenty-five young women enter, carrying suppliant branches in their left hands, whilst offering praise to Zeus. After boarding a boat and escaping across the Mediterranean, they have arrived in Greece seeking asylum. The women have fled Egypt in fear of being forced into marriage, and now plead to the king for safety.

Gemma May leads this brilliant chorus. Each person within the ensemble manages to shine individually whilst always making it about the group image. Together they chant, howl and weave animalistically around one another. Their movements, choreographed by Sasha Milavic Davies, bear a strong resemblance to birds. Travelling delicately, they evoke the sense of being lost souls searching for sanctuary.

These birds sing not only beautifully, but also proudly. Their voices coalesce to create a wonderfully resonating soundscape. Managing to hit the correct rhythm is crucial to the execution of David Greig's text, and vocal coach Mary King has done an excellent job to enable the performers achieve the right pace of delivery.

Ramin Gray's production is truly ensemble-led, and places a chorus of formidable young women at the forefront. Aided by Lizzie Clachan's visually stunning design, they have created a powerful and urgent retelling of Aeschylus's tale, which feels immensely similar with what is happening in politics today.

People talk, whisper, spread rumours and think the worst about outsiders. The women have been accepted into the city, but how do they remain safe? How do we in Britain protect those that we take in? Prejudice is evident and the refugees' arrival provokes fear and anger from some members of society.

"If we help, we invite trouble. If we don't, we bring shame."

We are in a culture of crisis, where our moral and human rights are being put to the test. What decision will we make?

The Suppliant Women at the Young Vic Theatre until 25 November

Photo credit: Young Vic Theatre

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