Ready for some star gazing?
Going Dark provided one of the few times I've encountered a child in the theatre who didn't annoy me, in fact, this one is adorable. He is super-smart Thunderbirds enthusiast Leo, the 6 year-old son of Astronomer Max; whose world of stars and vast, dark planetariums we are ushered into, guided only by the faint lights beneath our chairs.
As we look up into the dark ceiling Max illuminates it with explanations of star formations, guiding lights and the history behind it all: fascinating stuff that I'm usually absorbed by, but I struggle to get into on this occasion. Here Max (John Mackay) is in lecturer mode, which contrasts to the air of wonderment that springs forth when he tells Leo about the universe.
When they talk, Leo, who isn't actually in the theatre but conveyed through a disembodied voice is as engaged as we are, not just drinking up his dad's words like we do but challenging them with his own sweet understanding. Writer Hattie Naylor has created these characters and their relationship so perfectly, that when she then places obstacles between father and son, she places a lump firmly in my throat.
Their single-parent set-up hangs in the balance when Max is diagnosed with a degenerative eye condition that means he is going incurably blind. His own parents don't really know how to help (how many of us would?) and unwittingly impinge on his independence. Then his doctor brings up Social Services and how they might “help.”
Leo meanwhile, is aware his dad's been bumping into things, but would rather not hear out loud the reality of their situation. Max also has to contend with work and how he'll keep doing the thing he loves in spite of this huge obstacle. The way Naylor covers these bases and has Max finally talk to Leo about his blindness is truly impressive (as is Sound&Fury's soundscape). At times beautifully warm and at others tapping into a visceral fear. But she intersperses these moments with Max's lectures where facts are reeled off and I have to remind myself to concentrate on the important metaphorical science bit. As well as acquainting us with the demands and the brilliance of Max's profession, these sections should add something to the way I think of the universe and sadly, they don't.
But Going Dark is nonetheless impossible to forget. It left me wondering about the idea of independence, medical conditions we can't control, how Social Services view disabled parents and how frustrating it must be to have your skills doubted so easily. But it hasn't made me look at the night sky any differently.
Going Dark runs at Young Vic Theatre until 22nd December
More on Spoonfed
Constellations at Duke of York's Theatre
Arab Nights - Myth, Politics and Dictators at Soho Theatre
The Seagull at Southwark Playhouse
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