Cast: Evelyn Campbell, Sophie Doherty, Katherine Rodden, Clare Almond, Grace Lyons Huson
Written by: Paul Zindel
Directed by: Amy Gunn
Synopsis: Single mother Beatrice (Sophie Doherty) and her two daughters Tillie (Evelyn Campbell) and Ruth (Katherine Rodden) are living a down-trodden life in a shabby apartment. Tillie, a shy and introverted girl, enters into a science fair to try and make something of herself and at the same time win her mother’s love. Can her abusive and domineering mother find pride in her daughter’s achievements or will her deep-rooted self loathing finally permeate the girls’ lives as well?
Set in a dingy low-light apartment, The Effects of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds is an in-depth look at family dynamics that are driven by anger, animosity and envy. Single mother Beatrice is a depressed shell of a woman who cannot bear to see anyone succeed in life; whether that be her neighbours, colleagues or even her own flesh and blood. Her two daughters Tillie and Ruth bear the brunt of her resentment; constantly insulted and any attempts at happiness thwarted. The youngest of the two, Tillie, has a passion for science which allows her to escape her miserable home life and a teacher who encourages her enthusiasm. Her entrance into a science fair, which should bring joy to her family but is met by bitterness by her mother as her dreams were never realised, so why should anyone else’s be?
The Studio Jack Theatre in Brockley is an intimate performance space with just 50 seats which allows for maximum impact for this small but impressive production. The soiled one-scene set does a great job of reminding us just how abysmal the life this family leads is and the lack of lighting on stage adds a claustrophobic tone that the characters are living with throughout.
Sophie Doherty’s appalling, narcissistic and authoritarian portrayal of a woman who has little left in life is the overwhelming highlight of the production. Doherty brings impressive presence and, at times, humour to a self-destructive abuser and creates empathy for her burdens. Her daughters, played by Evelyn Campbell and Katherine Rodden, offer solid support to a standout performance.
In a play that attempts to explain how science underlies and unites us all it’s a scary thought that we could turn out to be someone with such hatred for those around them. Disturbingly true to life and with genuinely authentic performances, The Effects of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds is a frightening cautionary tale. Playing until Saturday 19th October, book your tickets here.
