The Caucasian Chalk Circle – Blackeyed Theatre (on tour)
Review by Laura Woodland
Blackeyed Theatre’s latest tour tackles one of Bertolt Brecht’s most influential pieces, The Caucasian Chalk Circle. The play follows the story of Grusha who rescues Michael, making many sacrifices for him amidst a bitter civil war.
Once peace is restored, Grusha is forced to face Michael’s biological mother, a selfish and greedy character. We are asked to judge who is the mother of this child now, using a chalk circle to decide the outcome. Director Tom Neill used masks throughout, as is the tradition of epic theatre to highlight the more grotesque characters. This worked wonderfully, making characterization both entertaining and masterful.
Every actor was involved in creating the music and this worked well as a technique to entertain and allow thinking time.
Anna Glynn’s performance of Grusha’s lullaby was heart wrenching, and her tender care of Michael (represented by a violin), was enchanting to behold.
What didn’t work so well were the projected images that highlighted how the issues raised in the play could be reflected on today’s society. Having said that, this production is an excellent way for students of Brecht to digest the play’s major themes.
For tour details, visit www.blackeyedtheatre.co.uk.