Featured Review: The Observer (National Theatre)

The intimate box layout of the Cottesloe Theatre lets you feel like you can wrap your arms around the stage. Those in the higher tiers of the auditorium would have imagined they were peering through the window of a dolls house, alive with emotion, conflict and passion. Matt Charman's story of moral conflict, focus's on the inner battle of an international election observer, who finds herself in a position to perhaps, influence an election. Anna Chancellor, who plays the embattled observer, "Fiona Russell", walks the fine line between, freedom fighting saint, and ignorant meddler, in such consumed fashion, that it keeps the audience's interest in her journey, ticking over.Her translator "Daniel", also serves well, as her morel reflection and friend. Chuck Iwuji's innocent, but strong and dignified portrayal makes the sexual tension between the two characters, believable and sweet, although any possible romance forms only a small part of this far reaching script.The scene changes are swift, faced paced and minimal, never allowing viewers to loose concentration. While the writing, is extremely clever, but never over complicated, and the serious tone of the play is neatly laced with intelligent humour for all to appreciate. The comedic moments are delivered in the main by the depressingly funny "Saunders", (James Fleet) and, in particular, the devilishly crass BBC reporter, Declan, (played by Lloyd Hutchinson). Cyril Nri provides the required embodiment of the villain, when playing "General Okute", with measured doses of darkness and ruthlessness.As the situation progresses, good intentions steer towards obsession, and with a flurry of supporting characters joining the struggle for peace, a big finish is inevitable. Through out the story, questions of Fiona's agenda, from friends and foe's, increase in volume as the plot deepens. Unfortunately as the climax edges closer, the expected crescendo fails to materialise, instead ending with a murmur, that leaves you in need of closure. Be not mistaken, the ending is tidy, however, it desperately lacks the finish, that such a good build up deserves.A compelling drama none the less.(08/08/09)By Vernon Nxumalo

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