Review: JOSHUA (AND ME) By Rachel Hammond at The Pleasance Theatre, Downstairs. 3 – 7 May 2022

‘A masterclass in storytelling’ ★★★★

‘Joshua (And Me)’ is an impressive, informative and heartfelt piece of theatre; telling the story of “Hannah” a girl growing up on the English coast with her mum, dad, granddad and two brothers Benjamin and Joshua. Through a masterclass in storytelling, from the age of seven up to the present day, the character of Hannah lets us in on how her and her family deal with growing up in an Autistic household with charm, wit and vulnerability.

We are instantly transported to her world- brought into the imagination by music, a playroom and the family dinner table. I particularly liked the set (Carly Altberg)- when walking in, I felt like I was tuning into an old CBeebies programme, in the best and most nostalgic way; welcomed with shapes and instruments as colourful as the Blackpool Pier. The sound design (Sophia Beeby) and composition (Rachel Hammond) were unique and clever- through loop pedals and live music, giving us a constant soundscape and a reminder that there were certain rules to abide by over time and throughout Hannah’s life. No music in the house (which was her escapism) and no beans on toast on a Saturday. The director (Lucy Jane Atkinson) had a very pure simple vision, respecting the script which was apparent in the work. If I were to pick a favourite moment- it would be the trip to the moon, led by Joshua, as you saw plain as day what it meant for them all to spend quality time together as a family.

The play was written, produced and performed alone by actor-musician Rachel Hammond. Based on her own life, the clear truth within it only excelled her performance— carrying an hour and a half piece with, (I think I counted two or three) quick sips of water. She’s a machine and what she’s doing through the play is admirable. A detail that stood out is her progression with music, particularly the saxophone, from a young Hannah, craving to play anything and everything she can, to falling in love with music again with Joshua, together- all the way to Cambridge and her recital of Octopus’ Garden by The Beatles.

It’s very hard to critique a play that makes you feel so many different kinds of emotions. I do wonder what a streamlined version would look like (45 mins- 1 hr) to get the most out of any audience focus and attention, however I also understand that with the material that’s there, it’s easier said than done.

It’s rare to see something that’s built on acceptance and love that still grounds you in the reality of the situation. Put in the right space, I can see this play being prominent for many people’s lives, for many years to come. Ultimately, we all want to see real relationships with real people on stage and 'Joshua (And Me)' provides that with an exciting performative element which gives it that universal appeal.

Photographer credit : Lidia Crisafulli

Review: JOSHUA (AND ME) By Rachel Hammond

The Pleasance Theatre, Downstairs.

3 – 7 May 2022

Box Office: https://www.pleasance.co.uk/event/joshua-and-me#overview

Reviewed by Evan L. Barker

Evan is an alumni from East 15 (2021.) Prior to training- he'd been immersed in the industry since

the age of seven. The writing bug hit at the age of seventeen- writing his first play and a year later

producing and directing it at The Volcano Theatre in Swansea (May 2018.) Evan is now based

in London and is co-founder of "The Shed Theatre Company" where he wants to facilitate theatre

that's thought provoking, progressive and accessible.