Daisy Hall’s new play has intrigue, good dialogue and strong performances. While it is a shame that it is also overpacked – and a little too odd – the piece’s ambition makes it enjoyable.
The scenario is dramatic enough, with the survivors of a disastrous whaling expedition facing certain death. But alongside existential questions, there are nods to environmentalism, class and capitalism. Frustratingly, none of these themes is explored in any depth.
In addition, there is a strong dose of the supernatural to deal with. Director Lucy Morrison stages the crew’s encounters with another world effectively. But too many questions are raised. Hall doesn’t have to answer them all, but Dogstar runs aground when the puzzle of what’s going on begins to impede the drama.
Far better is Hall’s skill at injecting humour into the darkest moments. Even when the whalers are in despair, they can still get a laugh. This is clearly what the cast responds to most. There’s some great deadpan delivery as tempers are frayed and truths revealed. The comedy allows Morrison to secure performances that save the piece.
The three remaining sailors (of differing ages and dispositions) are strong character studies, while their deceased friends and the mad captain who got them into trouble are vivid, despite never being seen. Justin Edwards, Abdul Jalloh and Adam Rojko Vega are all in fine form as sympathies continually shift. Hall deserves credit for skilfully creating this dynamism – and the cast brings her craft home.
Until 5 December 2026
Photo by Pamela Raith