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Half Light is an endearingly funny show that proves to be equally profound. Mollie Molumby and her cast employ the nostalgia of childhood storybooks to present ten-year-old Robin’s concerned perspective on his dad’s self doubt following the loss of his job. References to the recession grant the piece context, but are almost unnecessary as the theme proves readily familiar with audiences. Well-timed jokes and moments of audience participation are cleverly incorporated throughout to balance the darker moments of the show.
Half Light has evidently been designed for a larger space. The New Theatre, hidden in the back of The Connolly Bookshop in Temple Bar, is a very small playing space for a show that features journeying through forests, climbing mountains, dancing, and even an impromptu flight upon a crow’s back. However, the inventiveness and irresistible energy with which it is staged and performed blows this constrained space wide open within minutes. Sound effects are skillfully used by the ensemble to accompany earnest young Robin’s scrambling journey from his bed to his dad’s shed. In all, Half Light’s script proves beautifully transportive. Words have been chosen with a true storyteller’s skill. There are bright and powerful sentences that invite the imagination to play an equal part to the staging itself. Costumes are bright without being gaudy. The set is dressed without being busy. The overall look of the piece is one that fits its tone perfectly; a careful balance of fun and profundity with coloured balloons tied amongst the fir trees. All of this contributes to the distinct and irresistible feel of the world of Half Light.
The most beautiful asset of the show is music. It doesn’t attempt to do more or be more than it needs to. Song is used throughout to brighten the mood with a loose folky style. Instrumental pieces accentuate scenes without distracting while accompaniment develops for the more nuanced numbers. Bittersweet melodies endure with a subtle distinctiveness. The music proves thoughtful and the songs unpretentiously profound. Each of the eclectic instruments present are played and pieces are performed by the ensemble together with a practised ease. Polyphony and harmonies are negotiated effortlessly with highlights including a passionate kazoo solo amongst the beautifully rendered melodies.
Half Light breathes life into familiar analogies and metaphors, and is staged with an inventiveness and charm that utterly delights on multiple levels. It closes on a hopeful note, unfettered by saccharinity, and though not a traditional storybook ending, it is nevertheless a warm and genuine conclusion that gently lets some light in. This is a heartfelt reminder of the power of resilience during difficult times. A beautiful, engaging, and moving piece, Half Light has something to say to the adults and children of today alike. This is a show for all ages and one of this age.
