Review: WHITE FANG, Park Theatre

As Canada celebrates 150 years since its confederation, stories of the countries untold natural history are starting to come to light, and White Fang is an example of this. Taking the themes of Jack London's popular novel, Jethro Compton has staged a production that is visually exciting, but performatively struggles to get on its feet.

Penned in the programme as an "entirely new and original narrative", it is anything but, and instead resembles many common traits of a folklore fable. Originally wrote as a tale of identity, this is the story of how a lone wolf (in this instance interpreted as the young girl Lyzbet), finds their position in the world, through adverse challenges and provocations.

However, the story is predictable and has resemblance to many different films from the Disney franchise. For example, a child is adopted into a tribe not of their own (Tarzan), then struggles to assert their independence in a male-dominated setting (Brave), resulting in them having to fend off imperialist colonisers (Pocahontas). There are more similarities, and the piece even comes with original melodic songs, which I'll admit are beautifully composed by Jonny Sims, but don't leave any overall impact.

The play is well acted, and Mariska Ariya gives a brilliant lead performance. She is strong, composed and has a confident grasp of the text. She proudly wears her native dress; a gorgeous coat that has been designed by Adrin Erra Puente. All of Puente's pieces are aesthetically pleasing, and it is clear how much effort has been placed into each one's unique creation.

Unfortunately, the stages design lets the production down. The Park90 isn't a big space, and the log cabin takes up too much room within it, resulting in the performances being swallowed up. To add to this, I fail to understand why Compton has decided to block the majority of the action on the floor downstage. You find yourself weaving between other audience members' heads just to try and catch a glimpse of what's happening.

It's a shame that gorgeous puppetry and well-rounded performances are let down because of the concept design. Alas, if you're not on the front row, there isn't much point in seeing this show, as you'll only be able to catch a third of it.

White Fang at Park Theatre until 13 January, 2018

Photo Credit: Jethro Compton

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