Review: Outlying Islands at Jermyn Street Theatre

27 Feb

⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Four Stars)

David Greig’s Outlying Islands may have been written over 20 years ago, but its themes still feel strikingly relevant today. Set against the impending storm of World War II in 1939, the play follows two young ornithologists, Robert and John, who are sent to a remote island in the Outer Hebrides to survey the bird population. While the two young men’s focus on studying the fork-tailed petrels is their immediate concern, they soon realize that their work holds darker implications. Far from the eyes of society, the isolation of the island leads to self-discovery, a love triangle and a clash between the untouched nature of the island and the encroaching forces of modernity and war. Under the direction of Jessica Lazar, this revival at Jermyn Street Theatre is a captivating exploration of nature vs technology and old vs new under the looming threat of war.

The four-strong cast brings Greig’s complex characters to life with striking depth and nuance. Bruce Langley plays Robert, a confident and cocky yet emotionally detached young ornithologist, while Fred Woodley-Evans (making his professional debut) plays John, his more insecure and inexperienced counterpart. The chemistry between Langley and Woodley-Evans is very evident and they both deliver outstanding performances in this production.

Kevin McMonagle, as Mr. Kirk, the island’s grumpy leaseholder, brings a fantastic dry wit to the role, though I found myself wishing for us to see more of his character in the play. Mr. Kirk’s niece, Ellen, is portrayed by Whitney Kehinde who delivers an exceptional transformation over the course of the performance. Initially reserved and timid, Ellen’s character grows in confidence and her journey is one of the most rewarding arcs of the production.

The play strikes an impeccable balance between the darkness of isolation and the ever-present threat of war and moments of humour that come naturally thanks to Greig’s sharp writing and the actors’ excellent comedic delivery. The production deftly blends physical comedy with the more serious aspects of the story, providing much-needed moments of levity. Although I did find myself wishing the play explored in greater detail the darker ulterior motive for sending Robert and John to the island in the second act where the plot largely shifts to the developing love triangle.

The way that this production was able to evoke the setting of the island so effectively within the studio theatre setting is a testament to its creative team with set and costume design by Anna Lewis, lighting design by David Doyle and sound design by Christopher Preece. Jermyn Street Theatre offers an intimate, 70-seat setting that is perfect for a production like Outlying Islands. The space brings the audience up close to the action, creating a sense of intimacy that enhances the emotional impact of the play. It’s no surprise that this production has already been extended due to popular demand.

Outlying Islands runs at Jermyn Street Theatre until 22nd March 2025.