Sebastian Faulks' masterpiece "Birdsong" takes flight in this extraordinary new production at Birmingham Rep, where raw emotion and technical excellence combine to create an unforgettable theatrical experience.

In what must be hailed as one of the most remarkable debut performances of the season, James Esler announces himself as a major new talent in British theatre as Stephen Wraysford. Fresh from drama school, Esler demonstrates a maturity and emotional depth that actors twice his age might envy. His portrayal of Wraysford's journey from passionate young lover to battle-hardened soldier is nothing short of masterful, marking him as a talent to watch closely in the coming years. The vulnerability he brings to Stephen's early scenes in pre-war France contrasts beautifully with the haunted stoicism of his later years in the trenches, creating a character arc of remarkable complexity and authenticity.

Charlie Russell brings a captivating blend of passion and restraint to Isabelle Azaire, creating electric chemistry with Esler that makes their forbidden romance both believable and devastating. Their scenes together possess an intimate intensity that holds the audience spellbound, making the inevitable separation all the more heart-wrenching.

Max Bowden's portrayal of Jack Firebrace provides the production's moral compass, delivering a performance of remarkable warmth and humanity. His ability to find humor in the darkest moments never undermines the gravity of the situation but rather serves to highlight the human cost of war.

Rachel Wagstaff's adaptation masterfully distills Faulks' sweeping novel into a taut theatrical experience, while Alastair Whatley's direction demonstrates a keen understanding of both the epic and intimate aspects of the story. The production excels particularly in its handling of the time shifts between pre-war France and the trenches of the Somme, creating seamless transitions that enhance rather than interrupt the narrative flow.

The technical elements deserve special mention. The lighting design transforms the minimalist set with extraordinary effectiveness, creating everything from sun-dappled French gardens to the claustrophobic terror of underground tunnels. The sound design weaves together period music with the cacophony of warfare to create an immersive experience that never overwhelms the performances.

This production of "Birdsong" achieves that rare balance of honoring its source material while creating something uniquely powerful for the stage. It's a profound meditation on love, loss, and the human capacity for resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity.

Watching James Esler's astounding debut as Stephen Wraysford feels like witnessing the birth of a significant new theatrical talent. When combined with the production's technical excellence and the strong supporting performances, it makes this "Birdsong" an absolute must-see event of the theatrical season.

★★★★★

*Playing at Birmingham Repertory Theatre through February 1, 2025. Book now to witness this extraordinary production and what will surely be remembered as one of the most impressive debut performances of recent years.*

 BIRDSONG

Birmingham Repertory Theatre

January 28 - February 1, 2025

**Production Details** 

Adapted by: Rachel Wagstaff  

Directed by: Alastair Whatley  

Presented by: Original Theatre and JAS Theatricals in association with Joshua Beaumont & Huw Allen, Tiny Giant Entertainment, Birdsong Productions and Wiltshire Creative  

Running time: 2 hours 55 minutes including interval  

Tickets: From £19.50