Venue: Belvoir St Theatre (Surry Hills NSW), Feb 13 – Mar 23, 2025
Playwright: Andrew Bovell
Director: Neil Armfield
Cast: Kerry Fox, Borja Maestre, Jorge Muriel, Sarah Peirse
Images by Brett Boardman
Theatre review
The Spanish Civil War ended officially in 1939, but it appears reverberations from the bloodshed continue to this day. There are two distinct periods in Andrew Bovell’s Song of First Desire, 1968 and the present day. The story of one family spans those decades and three generations, revealing the brokenness of the Spanish soul that continues to seek mending. It is an intricate piece of writing, with cleverly woven fragments that spark intrigue, culminating to plot twists that prove highly satisfying.
Directed by Neil Armfield, the narrative’s sombre sense of gravity is always present, as is the weightiness of the sociological concerns that Song of First Desire wishes to explore. Emotions however do not always run high, in a show that is only occasionally evocative of the essence of a culture it represents.
Set design by Mel Page features a striking reference to the barrenness of a nation that struggles to piece itself back together. Lighting by Morgan Moroney, along with sound and music by Clemence Williams, are effective in calibrating a mournful quality for this reflective experience. A more distinct rendering of time and place could make our connection to the work feel richer. Even though the production’s integrity never comes into question, a greater air of authenticity is needed to inspire a more intense visceral response.
Actor Sarah Peirse sets an elegant tone with her quiet interpretations of Camelia and Margarita. Borja Maestre brings soulfulness to the stage, through his sensitive portrayals of Alejandro and Juan. Playing Julia and Carmen is Kerry Fox, memorable for dialling up the drama at opportune moments. A valuable warmth is contributed by Jorge Muriel as Luis, who then turns chilling as the frightening Carlos.
It is sobering to observe characters in Song of First Desire suffer the consequence of prolonged unrest. We are now in a moment of watching history repeat as despotism begins to take hold, in the most powerful office on earth. The worst has yet to transpire, but damage is already evident. At this time, strategies for survival, are as important as strategies for reconstruction. Choosing between safety and resistance will often seem difficult, but the key is to make it through to the end of this ordeal.
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