Take a group to The Years

Photo: Helen Murray

If any of you are interested in seeing great theatre, go to a truly remarkable show  – The Years***** at the Harold Pinter Theatre (until 19 April) This is a remarkable play depicting one woman’s life through the years.  It’s partly autobiographical and has been adapted and directed from the French writer, Annie Ernaux’s novel. 

Played by five actresses of different ages, Deborah Findlay, Romona Garai, Gina McKee, Anjali Mohindra, Harmony Rose- Bremner, we see ‘Annie’  (the woman is never actually named) going through various events from 1941 till 2006.  There are incidents from early life, the swinging 60s, much mention of the war in Algeria, Vietnam, AIDS, loss of virginity feminism and particularly birthday control and choice, Marriage, parenthood 9/11 and the growth of the right . Worldwide events link into the life of the woman being portrayed.

From very young to older age each episode is like a snapshot and is introduced by a picture being taken of one or more of the actors standing on front of a white sheet.  

Much has been made of the abortion scene where Romona Garai with blood down her legs and on her hands. We see how sad the whole event iand there’s horror  too.  In spite of trigger about blood and abortion being shown, members of the audience – it is suspected mainly men are still fainting during performances.  The play had to be paused to help remove an audience member when I saw it!

There is superb acting on display by all five actresses.  The whole production is beautifully mounted with music of the different ages being used and the performers singing in French and English. Movement and choreography blend in well with a super aerobics workout.

As a change from light-hearted musicals, this profound  piece of drama is riveting and unmissable.

Book your group in now!