The end of the show is heart-breaking in its inevitability

Playwright Matthew Seager was inspired to write this play after seeing the ‘profoundly moving’ effect that music had on residents in a dementia care home. In many ways, he tells a very simple story, but the components that bring this story to life on the stage are exceptional.

From the first moments of the show, as Jane (Jennifer Ward-Lealand) helps Arthur (Michael Hurst) to put on his shoes, I am struck by the small moments of intimacy and connection that are so beautifully rendered by both performers. Of course, being a couple in real-life helps, but their performances build on this to ensure that they effortlessly deliver all of the authenticity, humour and charm that Producer and Co-Director Callum Brodie identifies in his Company Note in the programme.

I really enjoy the way that the show mixes moments from Jane and Arthur’s past and present with witty and engaging commentary from both of them on the events that they portray. Enhanced by effective lighting (designed by Jennifer Lal and operated by Michael Goodwin), as well as the sound of Frank Sinatra’s rendition of ‘Fly me to the moon’, we move seamlessly through their first meeting (which, according to Arthur, was a plan masterfully executed by him) and early married life before arriving at ‘the incident’ that heralds the beginning of a profound change for both Arthur and Jane.

The joy, tenderness and humour of these early scenes is so engagingly performed that I am completely drawn into this beautiful (and in many ways) ordinary love story. I love the way that Arthur uses Sinatra’s song to resolve any possible conflict, as he and Jane are unable to stop themselves from dancing when they hear it. The dancing (choreographed by Claire O’Neal) is joyful, polished and performed with assurance.

The changes of gear from Jane and Arthur’s present to the origin of their love story to the moments of direct connection with the audience are so beautifully paced and performed that I spend at least the first 20 minutes of the show with a huge smile on my face, absorbing the marvellous experience.

As the story moves towards Arthur’s diagnosis (the show makes no secret of the fact that this is a story about Alzheimers) the tone of the performance subtly shifts. This shift is often signalled via sound (effectively designed by Lachie Oliver-Kerby), as the smooth sounds of Sinatra are replaced by those that are far less comforting.

We see Arthur’s condition progress as he and Jane make repeat visits to the Doctor. During one of these visits, Jane tells us of a rare moment of contentment that leads her to an unexpected impulse. Ward-Lealand is astonishing in this section, delivering a searing description of the impact of Arthur’s condition on her that viscerally brings to mind a very similar moment from my own life. Tears run freely as the authenticity of this moment bites.

Soon after, Hurst heart-breakingly shows us the impact of the situation on Arthur, reigniting my tears at the contrast between this moment and the moments of joy and mischief earlier in the play. Hurst’s ability to utterly inhabit the full range of Arthur’s journey from a smitten lover to someone unable to fully comprehend their world is remarkable. It is a real privilege to see two such phenomenal performances complementing each other so perfectly.

The end of the show is heart-breaking in its inevitability and simplicity and brings us full circle back to the beginning. Having been immersed in their story for so long, I arrive at this moment devastated for both characters.

Unbelievably (and frustratingly for me), the audience members sitting next to my companion and I during the show seemed less immersed as they appeared incapable of leaving their phones alone or staying quiet during the performance. This really was a huge loss for them, as this is an outstanding show with breathtaking performances. 

I urge you to go and see this show and appreciate how fortunate we are to be able to experience two such powerhouse performers at the very top of their game. Please just leave your phone in your bag!

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