Little Deaths at Theatre 503
Written by Amy Powell Yeates, Little Deaths has made its way to Southwest London following a hugely successful run at Edinburgh Festival’s Summerhall last year. It’s a compelling exploration of the complexities that inform human relationships and friendships, desire, and platonic love. Tucked away above the Latchmere pub on Battersea Park Road, Theatre 503 is stark yet delightfully cosy and intimate in atmosphere, given the minimalist set design. Set during the late 90s, the era of Spice Girls, Jennifer Aniston’s hair and supermodels, the play evokes a powerful sense of nostalgia.
The poignant narrative follows the lives of best friends, Charlie and Debs, whose turbulent friendship of 25 years is perpetually being put to the test as a result of an array of mishaps and life events. How many “little deaths” can they survive? Beginning from their teenage bond, right through to adulthood, life is not what they imagined as youths. These hyper-realistic themes allow for a deeply emotional response, inviting the audience to reflect on the vulnerability that accompanies intimacy and the unspoken truths that inevitably creep up to the surface despite resistance and fear. This coming-of-age drama is a romanticised expression of heartbreak and loss, as well as ecstasy and elation, and humour is what infuses these elements together to create the magic.
From the moment the lights dim, the atmosphere in the theatre shifts, creating a palpable sense of anticipation and an instant investment in the leading characters. Claire O’Reilly’s direction is impeccable; her clever use of space mirrors the emotional landscapes of the characters, enhancing the storytelling without overwhelming the audience. The performances by Olivia Frost and Rosa Robson portraying Charlie and Debs are nothing short of exceptional and complementary: both bring a unique depth to their roles, embodying the nuances of their characters with wit, pain and vulnerability, as well as sincerity and skill. The combination of razor-sharp Debs and gooey Charlie allows for the chemistry between the cast members to be electric, effectively conveying the tension and tenderness that permeate the narrative.
Nina Doroushi
Photo: Johan Persson
Little Deaths is at Theatre 503 from 29th April until 3rd May 2025. For further information or to book, visit the theatre’s website here.
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