Coming from the pen of Jack Thorne, who is better known as one of the writers of channel 4’s Shameless, this is a fascinating and brilliant production which explores the true life case of Mary Bell who, when only a little girl, was accused of the murder of two children. The play is divided into two sections, the first part is when she is talking to her friend Norma on the bed, full of excitable energy as both fall out and argue as they plan what they intend to do to the boys. The second one is in 1977 were Mary escapes from prison and spends a weekend in Blackpool, desperately desiring to be a normal citizen. Never afraid of the fourth wall this play constantly manages to thrill and intrigue, as the little girls jump onto unsuspecting audience members, kissing and teasing them and trying to play childhood games. It’s such a simple and effective idea, and has the crowd’s full attention throughout.
The second section is just as impressive, as Mary and her friend flirt with two soldiers in a bed and breakfast. It’s surprisingly tender, mainly seeing Mary’s desire for normality, which is thwarted by the others, with a finale that sees her talking to a boy as another couple are noisily having sex next to them. It’s an intelligent and almost sinister ending. Brilliantly mixing childhood innocence along the darkness all children are capable off, this play is flawlessly acted and directed, and special mention should go to the Geirgia Lowe who has created some brilliant eerie sets to accompany the production. Highly recommended.
4/5
Martin Miller
