Review: Eurydice (Jermyn Street Theatre)

Review by Ozbil Dumenci

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The tragedy of Eurydice and Orpheus is one that has transcended time, captivating audiences for millennia with its poignant exploration of love and loss. Recently, this timeless tale has seen a resurgence in public consciousness thanks to a little musical called Hadestown, and the recent Netflix show KAOS starring Jeff Goldblum (incredible show, by the way, but also the newest victim of premature cancellations by Netflix, ending on a massive cliffhanger). Sarah Ruhl’s Eurydice at the intimate Jermyn Street Theatre is the newest addition to the long list of takes on this tragedy, each one offering unique interpretations while highlighting the enduring nature of this myth.

Being from the country of Aphrodite’s birth, I’ve always been slightly partial to Greek mythology. However, I could not help but wonder what this production could bring to the table when the story of Eurydice and Orpheus has been so well covered in recent pop culture.

Perhaps not unexpectedly,  in Eurydice, the story follows the same Broad strokes as the aforementioned pieces of work. However, crucially, instead of sharing the spotlight with other important characters from Greek mythology, Eurydice and Orpheus take centre stage, with a more intimate exploration of not only these characters, but also the emotional interplay between them and their surroundings.

What results is an examination of grief and love, and how the two are intertwined. Various different forms of love or touched upon in the 90 minute, single act runtime. Eurydice does not overstay its welcome, delivering an emotional gut-punch masterfully with haste. Ruhl’s writing is both lyrical and profound, capturing the essence of these relationships in a way that resonates deeply. Unfortunately, the razor-sharp focus on the emotional aspects of this tale means that some crucial moments of this tragedy feel slightly rushed, diffusing tension that could have been more potent with additional breathing room.

The impeccable cast command the small stage masterfully. Eve Ponsonby shines in the role of Eurydice, showcasing an impressive range that brings both vulnerability and strength to her character. Her portrayal invites the audience to feel Eurydice’s joys and sorrows deeply. Notably, throughout the performance, one can feel that the cast really believe in the material, and this makes Eurydice all the more impactful, as this contributes to the production’s overall emotional weight.

The production’s visual and auditory elements work in concert to elevate Ruhl’s tender script. A symphony of movement, lighting, and sound design envelops the audience in an intimate atmosphere that enhances the story’s emotional nuances. The intimacy of Jermyn Street Theatre further helps immerse the audience in the small universe crafted by Ruhl and director Stella Powell-Jones.

One of the most striking aspects of Eurydice is its ability to capture the profound sacrifices we make for love and how the pain of loss can irrevocably transform us. By stripping away the razzle-dazzle typically associated with larger productions—be it a bluesy operatic musical or the grandiosity of a Netflix show—this adaptation allows the emotional core of the story to shine through with clarity. It invites us to reflect on the complexities of love, loss, and the enduring impact these experiences have on our lives.

Ultimately, Ruhl’s Eurydice is a poignant reminder of the fragility of love and the deep, often painful connections that shape our existence. It resonates with anyone who has experienced love’s transformative power. In a world filled with grand narratives and epic spectacles, this intimate production offers a necessary pause—an opportunity to sit with our own grief and love, reminding us of the delicate threads that bind us to one another. As the curtain falls, one is left contemplating the complexities of human emotion, making this rendition of the ancient myth as relevant today as it ever was.

Eurydice plays at Jermyn Street Theatre until 9th November. Tickets from https://www.jermynstreettheatre.co.uk/show/eurydice/

Photos by Alex Brenner