A generational tale heads out on its new revived for the final time!
Call Me John is a two-person award-winning play by Reflex Theatre. The show explores the tale of John as he discusses some of his stories to his grandson Ashley: inspired by real East Anglian stories. Call Me John was praised within its last run, with tremendous positive feedback from audiences. Previously with Reflex Theatre, they explored immersive theatre in Secrets: a thoughtful piece of theatre. After sitting down earlier this month with director Callan Durrant (find out more here), I was eager to watch the show.
The story has been cleverly crafted to weave John’s narrative of writing his story down alongside Ashley’s experiences of current life situations. This piece of theatre manages to contrast both generational situations together to tell a compelling story of perseverance and remembering. Throughout the show, it is humorous, emotional and thought-provoking. Using boxes to change locations added lots of value to each scene, allowing for a clear scene change whilst also keeping the story focused on the narrative: the most compelling part of the show! Lighting and sound were utilised skilfully in this production, allowing for action at times and more heartfelt moments in other situations. After the show, there was the opportunity for a Q and A with the cast and director. Unfortunately I was unable to stay for this but offering this to the audience is a great aspect to this tour.
As previously mentioned, the cast consists of two actors playing a grandad and grandson. Callum Adkins plays Ashley, John’s grandson. Tim Nixon plays John, Ashley’s grandad. Both actors are reprising their roles following the previous incarnation of this production. Adkins has a way of adding both comedy and emotion to his scenes: immaculately navigating the different aspects of the script. The performance is believable and makes you consider how the younger generation see the older generation. Nixon tells lots of stories throughout the show: encapsulating a typical Norfolk grandad. His performance reminds me of my own great-grandad who lived around a similar time. Both Nixon and Adkins work effortlessly well together to create an emotive and thoughtful performance.
Call Me John continues touring till the middle of May. With lots of location, catch the show near you!
Tickets for this performance were provided complimentary. A huge thanks to Callan and Reflex Theatre for the invitation and best of luck with the rest of the tour!
Max
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