Novel by Zana Fraillon
Adapted by S.Shakthidharan
Directed by Esther Richardson
Designed by Miriam Nabarro
Composition and Sound Design by Arun Ghosh
Lighting Design by Ben Cowens
Video Design by Daniel Denton
Assistant Direction by Sirazul Islam (through the Regional Theatre Young Director Scheme)
Puppetry Direction by Alison Duddle
All Photography @Robert Day, with thanks
Reviewshub: ***** This is a remarkable piece. The whole is set within a grim area designed by Miriam Nabarro. Consisting of large, ever-present, fence panels that are hinged to allow the action to move around the centre, one moment acting as barriers, the next, opening to allow some contact, it is an integral part of the show, complemented by the lighting design of Ben Cowens and soundscape of Arun Ghosh. …This is a piece that will live long in the memories of those fortunate enough to see it. Its importance lies not just in raising awareness of the treatment of the most vulnerable – although that is important and especially apposite right now – but also in looking at how we grow, how we fit in, who we are. As Jimmie says, ‘Stories are what matter, right?’
The Observer **** 6/3/22 Presentationally, director Esther Richardson’s production is impressive. The stage picture powerfully counterpoints impressions of confinement and freedom: Miriam Nabarro’s set silhouettes space-enclosing wire fences against the seemingly endless, colour-washed horizons suggested by Ben Cowens’s lighting. Video projections illustrate tales being told (seascapes, skyscapes, the eponymous bird; realised by Daniel Denton and Maha Alomari). Puppets are laughter-raising (a toy duck) and terrifying (bird skull-wearing soldiers); masked characters bring to moving life the story-within-the-story, written by Jimmie’s late mother and read to the illiterate girl by Subhi….Ultimately, though, the writing, combined with committed performances from the cast, soul-shakingly communicates the truthfulness of the characters’ experiences. The message of Pilot’s production is not just for young adults but for all ages and all times.
Miriam Nabarro’s shape-shifting set design is fantastic
Always time for theatre