Tristan and Yseult

By Robert Iles - 19th Sep 2005

Where to start? Simple stuff first I guess, THIS IS A GREAT SHOW, if you get the chance go and see it and remind yourself what modern, innovative theatre is capable of. The story of Tristan and Yseult is about as old as European stories go; a story of love, betrayal, death and heartache set in a time when Cornwall was proud, independent nation. Perhaps it is because Kneehigh are a Cornish company that they seem to have such a strong affinity with this tale, not only the text but the actual flow of the story, an affinity that enables them to present it in a modern style whilst simultaneously tapping into the core feelings that have kept this tale so alive.

Mark, the King of Cornwall, has his country invaded by the Irish King Morholt but is helped to defeat him by the enigmatic drifter Tristan. In revenge, Mark decides to take what he sees as Morholt's greatest possession, his sister Yseult. So he sends Tristan to get her but, needless to say, they fall in love during the return voyage. None the less, Yseult and Mark marry and lvoe each other, but whilst Mark is Yseult's 'rock', Tristan is her passion and she continues to love two men - until a jealous courtier decides to confront the king with their treachery. Mark banishes them but when their love has run its course Yseult returns to Mark and Tristan to his own country - an unbreakable vow between them to return if called.

From the start you know this is not going to be a lame production; you are surrounded by the "Love Spotters", the train spotters of the unloved and entertained by 'the band' who actually play throughout pretty much all of the show.

The whole cast is superb, I genuinely had trouble connecting who was who in chorus and main characters, when they switched they did so completely and utterly credibly. The band/chorus were superb. For me, Cornish Chorus is a superb match for Greek Chorus! Utterly divine.

The set was flexible and extremely effective, made more so by the 'lift' provided in the centre which was used to enormous effect. The use of a theatre curtain as the sail of Tristan's ship and the backdrop to his and Yseult's love was just superb.

This is a great production wit ha superb cast … thoroughly recommended.

Robert Iles