Sunset Song, directed by Finn den Hertog, was a brilliant adaptation of Lewis Grassic Gibbon’s classic Scottish novel. Closely following Chris Guthrie’s journey through the different stages of her life as she experiences love and loss turning her from a naïve and innocent child to an experienced and mature adult and mother, this production very clearly portrayed Grassic Gibbon’s classic coming-of-age story.
Although it is a very long show, lasting nearly 3 hours, there was no time wasted. As it followed the life of Chris as she juggles relationships, growing up as a woman in the 1920’s, trying to please both of her parents, deciding if she wanted to be the “Scottish Chris” of the land or the “English Chris” who is well educated, it was a packed show.
Sunset Song was certainly an emotional rollercoaster. The impactful scenes of John’s physical abuse towards Chris’ brother, Will and sexual abuse to Chris’ mother Jean, resulted in many tense points. To balance this out, there were also uplifting scenes such as the wedding scene where the audience watches the whole Kinraddie community come together for Chris and Ewan’s happy wedding day. With the use of upbeat live Scottish music it was really a party on stage.
As the story progressed, the subject of war was introduced with WW1 making waves in the Kinraddie community, with characters such as Long Rob of the Mill being anti-war and characters such as Chae Strachan being pro-war, it created many conflicts.
From the outstanding cast to the dynamic staging, the production was perfectly set, allowing the audience to enjoy the action packed journey through Chris Guthrie’s life.
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