Scarlett review, Hampstead Theatre Downstairs

They say small is beautiful, and Scarlett is a small play in a small space with a small cast that dazzles. Scarlett, a single mother having a midlife crisis, literally runs for the hills when the going gets tough, only to discover escape is never that easy. Her own busybody mother, Bette, and rarified daughter, Lydia, are soon on her case; and what Scarlett hadn't allowed for was the resistance of the locals in the shape of the doughty Eira and her granddaughter, Billy...

Five women on a Welsh hillside, all with a determined line of travel, doesn't sound hopeful as a comedic device. What follows, however, is a magical 90 minutes of profound whimsy. Colette Kane has created a play that explores the complexities of mother-daughter relationships in a world where, increasingly, women are doing it all themselves. Rooted in Polly Sullivan's evocative hillside set, complete with stone chapel, grass and earth, anything feels possible.

Bringing Scarlett to life are vivid performances, in particular two young actors - Bethan Cullinane as Lydia and Gaby French as Billy.  Cullinane has already earned wings with the RSC.  French is still at drama school. Based on this performance, they'll be queueing around the block for her when she graduates. Joanna Bacon plays Bette brilliantly, delivering laugh-out-loud lines while looking like she's chewing a wasp. Lynn Hunter as Eira is as solid and deep as the ground beneath her.

In conclusion: Director Mel Hillyard move characters around a space that can barely fit them, and makes it feel like open country.  The cast is completed by Kate Ashfield as Scarlett. It's a great watch - unexpected, original, and simple. Well worth a ticket.


Scarlett at Hampstead Theatre Downstairs, Eton Avenue, London NW3 3EU, runs to March 25.