Step Behind The Stage
Parlour Song
Greenwich Theatre, London - 07/05/25
Review by Alex King
Photo Credit: Danny With A Camera
Amongst the works in Jez Butterworth's storied career is a lesser-known gem, Parlour Song. This show provides an intimate exploration of how three lives evolve, as the mundane slowly gives way to paranoia and desire. The show first opened in New York in 2008, before opening in London a year later. Now, more than 15 years after its London debut, Butterworth's play has its first revival at the Greenwich Theatre.
Before the play even began, I was fascinated by Emily Bestow's set design. The set resembled a home floor plan, with stark white walls covered in an array of items. You couldn't help but scan the shelves and compartments, drawn to the countless little trinkets tucked into every corner. Over the course of the production the set became quite literally part of the furniture. Walls were pulled out to reveal a table and bed, while boxes became stools and tables. The set flawlessly worked hand in hand with Hannah Schlenker's video design which is projected throughout the show. The production design helped effectively tell the story without outshining the performers.
Much of Jez Butterworth's work is larger in both scale and theme, but one thing that remains true is that it sparks conversation and Parlour Song is no different. With just three characters, his writing explores ideas that nurture discussion, whilst leaving much open to interpretation. The script demonstrates his remarkable knack for comedy, whilst also displaying how strong a dramatic writer he can be through expertly crafted monologues, only enhanced by the excellent cast.
Photo Credit: Danny With A Camera
Guiding us through the story is affable car wash owner Dale, played by the charming Jeremy Edwards. With a likeable demeanour Edwards effortlessly wins over the audience, skilfully portraying Dale as the everyman he appears to be on the surface. He is able to hold his own in both the comedic and bleaker moments of the production.
While Kellie Shirley does not get quite as much to sink her teeth into as Joy, when she does, she absolutely delivers. Her portrayal of a woman desperate for some sort of spark in life gives her moments to shine, which she fully embraces, particularly towards the third act.
For me, it was Naveed Khan's portrayal of Ned that proved the highlight. At first an unremarkable demolitions expert, it is Ned who unravels throughout the play. As his personal belongings begin to disappear, and the weeks without sleep grow longer, Khan navigates the wide range of emotions fantastically. Whether it is his desperate attempts at dinner, his hysterical 'exercise' as he tells his romantic story to Dale, or his final explanation of his dream, Khan plays Ned with such believability that you feel his despair yet still find yourself laughing at his actions.
The cast possess the level of chemistry required with such a small company, and it is not difficult to see these three as friends, neighbours and partners.
Overall, Parlour Song possibly asks more questions than it answers, but if you're after a show with a strong cast that will allow you to ponder the surprising possibilities of the mundane, then head down to this limited run. The production is running until 24 May at Greenwich Theatre.
Performers on the Night:
Kellie Shirley – Joy
Naveed Khan – Ned
Jeremy Edwards – Dale