Desolate Heaven at Theatre503

Desolate Heaven, directed by Paul Robinson, tells the story of two girls struggling with the overwhelming responsibility of caring for an infirm parent, having been abandoned by the other. The play also visits the theme of falling in love, and highlights the emotional danger this entails.

Introducing Carla Langley as Orlaith and Evelyn Lockley as Sive, the characters are brilliantly presented – one over-confident and full of defiance, the other a timid and anxious girl. Polar opposites, they are nonetheless drawn together and bonded by their hardship.

The play opens Paul Robinson’s first season as sole artistic director of Theatre503, and brings Ailis Ni Riain’s script to life. Despite having just three weeks rehearsal, Cara and Evelyn both debut in very mature and impressive professional performances.

Desolate Heaven will be shown at Theatre503 – a small theatre with a capacity of just 65, situated above the Latchmere Pub.   Having been awarded Most Welcoming Theatre by Off West End, Theatre503 creates a beautiful backdrop for Desolate Heaven.

Part drama, part fantasy, with hints of tragedy, Desolate Heaven is a play about love and adversity – a must-see for romantics and feminists alike.

Verdict: •••••

Ashlea Griffith

Desolate Heaven is at Theatre503, Battersea Park Rd from 5^th February until 2^nd March 2013. For further information visit here.