Kris Weber's World of Theatre

Map of the Heart by William Nicholson
Presented by Malvern Theatre Company
Directed by Geoff Hickey
Reviewed (April 30) by K.E. Weber
Cast: Christine Andrew, Paul Freeman, Kate Turnbull, Leon Bannister, Barry Lockett, Anne Pagram, Charles Cranfield, Richard Bowers, Mandy McCarty.

Map of the Heart, penned by the same playwright as Shadowlands, is a sensitive and absorbing play, raising the many and complex issues, and consequent choices, that shape us. ‘Are you leading the life you want to lead?' is one of the many provocative lines spoken, and it is on this basic theme that much of the play relies.

We learn early on, that Albie Steadman, a Doctor, is preparing to leave for Africa. He is also preparing to leave his pleasant but rather predictable wife Ruth, their daughter, Sally and his comfortable home. He has fallen in love with Dr. Mary Hanlon, a passionate individual who runs a field hospital in Africa and organizes the assignments of relief medicos there. Albie has been entranced not only by her cause but by his belief that he is no longer leading the life he wants to lead.

Africa is in the middle of a civil war, and although warnings are issued, Albie is not swayed. He accompanies the woman he now loves into Africa, and is subsequently kidnapped and held under severe conditions in the African interior. Mary, with the assistance of various governments, fights stoically for is release, but must also battle Ruth and Sally who have uncovered the truth. Albie is released after 12 months and allowed to come home. Many things are altered, however, and what follows is Albie's reconciliation with himself.

Paul Freeman was remarkably strong as Albie Steadman. William Nicholson has created a wonderful character for an able actor, and Paul Freeman was certainly up to the challenge, displaying great focus and energy, particularly during the hostage scenes and the arrival at home. Similarly, Christine Andrew (Ruth Steadman) was strong, committed and believable at all times. Her clear diction was also pleasing. Some singing ability was required here which was, to my untrained ear, ably presented. Anne Pagram was quite convincing as Dr. Mary Hanlon, depicting her obsessive passion effectively. She was particularly stirring during her monologues, however, their was a tendency to overplay emotion from time to time.

Strong support was given by Kate Turnbull, who was refreshingly natural as Ruth and Albie's daughter, Sally. I liked her easy style. She never overplayed, was always in the moment and, importantly, was really listening. Although acting opportunities didn't really arrive until Act 11, Leon Bannister (Bernard Fisher) was quite strong and displayed a sound technique. I think the piano work needed a bit more time, though. Barry Lockett, as the man of few words, Angus Ross, displayed some wonderful timing - certainly a change of pace to Heidelberg's, A Flea in her Ear. Mandy McCarty (June Armitage)was suitably glib and Charles Cranfield (Smithy) and Richard Bowers (Andrew Rainer) did their jobs.

Malvern's set was well presented, displaying a good utilization of space for the many locations required. The main action takes place in the Steadman family home, and much was achieved in a relatively small space. Furnishings were apt, however I was bothered by the strange, black, makeshift looking piano. I wonder whether something more suitable could have been found. Nevertheless, scenes were changed with ease and what might have been a daunting task was cleverly realized.

Lighting and audio, too, were sound with some beautiful musical choices being evidenced. I did, however, feel that the audio during the outdoor sea scene could have been turned down a few notches - were the actors purposefully fighting to be heard?

Direction was tight and movement generally good - although I would have liked to have seen Paul Freeman play to the front a little less, particularly during Act 1. The moments of stillness were very effective, with actors playing these well.

Overall, a challenging piece of writing was presented with great effectiveness.