Photo Credit: Kristina Banholzer
‘Feral Monster,’ a theatrical production from the National Theater Wales, created by Bethan Marlow and directed by Izzy Rabey, has excellently captivated audiences on its tour around Wales. This extraordinary production, brought to life by a stellar cast featuring the exceptional talents of Lily Beau, Geraint Rhys Edwards, Carys Eleri, Rebecca Hayes, Nathaniel Leacock, and Leila Navabi, promises an unforgettable journey. Audiences can anticipate a rhythmically charged, visually stunning, and intensely hilarious experience as they embark on this musical journey with a team of remarkable performers.
‘Feral Monster’ is bound to leave a lasting impression on all who witness it, serving as a spark to ignite inspiration. The story unfolds with a beautiful, rhythmic pace that captivates the audience from the first beat to the last. Following the story of Jax navigating life alongside their family and friends, in 90 minutes we are taken on a journey of loss, love, heartbreak and discovery. The carefully orchestrated narrative weaves together a tapestry of emotions, mirroring the highs and lows of adolescence in a visually captivating manner.
For all those who watch feral monster you will be instantly drawn in by how visually appealing and intriguing it is. The stage posits itself as a canvas onto which an explosive painting of colour, movement, light and expression is created. The writing transcends expectations as Bethan Marlow skilfully captures the essence, words, and emotions of adolescence, presenting them in a simple yet captivating manner.
The supporting cast, particularly in their portrayal of the main character Jax, brilliantly and humorously vocalise the inner musings of a teenager. Witnessing the physical personification of these emotions and conflicting thoughts on stage with the ensemble brings a delightful smile to the faces of older audience members, evoking nostalgic reflections on their own teenage experiences. This added layer of expression adds a wonderful touch to the overall performance, creating a relatable and engaging experience for the audience.
For ‘Feral Monster,’ the laughter of the audience seamlessly intertwines with the soundtrack, becoming an integral part of the experience. The exceptional cast of actors effortlessly breathes life into these finely developed characters, creating a natural connection with the audience. As a spectator, it is so believable, not at all forced. Every moment felt like you are genuinely being immersed into the tumultuous life of Jax.
Some of the credit for this immersive experience undoubtedly goes to the fantastic portrayal of Jax by Rebecca Hayes, who skilfully brought the seemingly “unremarkable” teen to life. Jax, with their awkward and blunt expressions, managed to capture the hearts of audience members, resonating profoundly with the teenage experience of navigating a passionate love for the first time, amidst the challenges of self-identity and finding one’s place in the world. This first love unfolds with the fiery character of Ffion, portrayed by Lilly Beau, whose unapologetically loud, bright, and politically correct attitude wonderfully contrasts with Jax’s character.
The outstanding performance by Geraint Rhys Edwards can not go without mention. In portraying the role of the father his on-stage presence evoked a chilling atmosphere, eliciting empathy for his plight on the streets and stirring our hearts for Jax. Yet in his role as owner of the chippy, Edwards seamlessly stole buckets of laughter from the audience. His character exuded warmth, drawing us in with a captivating charm that added a delightful dimension to the overall experience. Edwards showcased a remarkable range, making every moment he spent on stage thoroughly enjoyable for the audience.
Beyond the laughter “Feral Monster” fearlessly delves into intense themes, portraying them with artistic finesse. The small cast of eight masterfully crafts a storyline that navigates identity, sexuality, family, friendship, mental health, and more. The result is an immersive experience that resonates with the audience on a profound level.
The pinnacle of the performance arrives with Jax’s powerful monologue. As she challenges the traditional narrative of rags-to-riches, the audience is confronted with the often-overlooked stories that deserve recognition. This poignant moment invites reflection on the diverse and unheard narratives that shape our understanding of resilience.
The collaboration of an LGBTQIA+ creative team adds a unique and inclusive dimension to the production. From Bethan Marlow’s poignant storytelling to director Izzy Rabey’s award-winning contributions, the team strives to offer a platform for voices that are too often excluded, creating an impactful and resonant performance.
The musical’s soundtrack, a collaborative effort led by composer Nicola T. Chang, is a fusion of grime, R&B, soul, pop, and rap. This diverse musical tapestry complements Bethan Marlow’s lyrics, creating a multisensory delight that enhances the overall immersive experience. The energy from the cast as they performed held audience’s attention and the musical talent from each of them shone through.
As “Feral Monster” embarks on its tour across Wales, audiences can expect more than just a theatrical performance. It’s an extraordinary celebration of the diverse stories that shape teenage life in Wales, an explosion of colour, hilarity, despair, teen angst, and delightful chaos that promises to resonate with the thoughts of every teenager and everyone who was once a teenager. Don’t miss the chance to witness this musical masterpiece that goes beyond entertainment and becomes a celebration of the universal teenage experience.
Article by: Damilola AKinkunmi
