Brief Encounter @ Tower Theatre

Brief Encounter follows two tragic lovers as their chance meetings develop into an intense romantic affair. As they meet across train stations, restaurants, and occasionally an unknowing colleague’s flat, they come to terms with the depth of their love for one another, whilst realising the harsh truth that this love is not sustainable. 

Many will be familiar with the 1945 film of the same name but what sets this production apart from its counterpart is the inclusion of a beautiful selection of thematic songs that appear throughout. The cast is studded with talented vocalists, occasionally so talented that you’re led to wonder whether this skill was prioritised over others but this matters little as how could you not be dazzled by each honeyed voice as it emerged throughout the play. Each actor has a chance to shine, whether joining the live band on stage or through beautifully lit solos dotted throughout the piece. 

A duo stood out to me throughout, and that was Beryl (Imogen Front) and Stanley (Tom Lafferty) who exemplified the puppy love that was positioned parallel to the leads, reflecting what their life could have been if they’d only met earlier in their stories. It was wonderful to see two young actors hold such chemistry on stage, as they delivered their lines with gusto. Their harmonies were a delight to listen to and they moved across the stage with ease.

Laura (Victoria Flint) and Alec (Dom Ward) complimented them as they led us through the narrative, lingering glances and stolen looks creating a heart-string-tugging sadness as we crept towards the inevitable tragedy. Both actors seemed comfortable in their roles and accompanying accent work and felt like strong choices for the lead couple. I wish there had been slightly more time for their chemistry to grow throughout the play – however this may be a place where the script is at fault – as sometimes I felt that I struggled to keep up with the progression of the relationship. However, Flint and Ward were wonderful choices to take us on that journey. 

The set design was also strong across the piece, as it transformed seamlessly from train station cafe, to living room, to uptown restaurant at a light push of the ensemble. David Taylor did an impressive job to create such an atmosphere within the space. 
Brief Encounter is a lovely piece of theatre put on in a friendly and welcoming theatre. The run continues til the 25th of April, find tickets here.