Libby Hall on her new role at Salford Arts Theatre
"I’m truly honoured to have this fantastic opportunity to be writer in residence at salford arts theatre. The theatres unwavering support has given me so much confidence and I’m beyond excited to continue working with them to bring theatre to the people of Salford."
COPYRIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY SHAY ROWAN
Though punctuated with ample doses of sarcastic and witty humour, the production does very well to build a dark pessimism from the start and to then increase it further: there is a clear suggestion that the search for the missing boy isn’t going to end well. Theatrically, this gradual wind-up of the audience makes for a captivating spectacle.
Hall's writing is current and vital, and uses humour to emphasise the tragedy. The youths walk, talk and act naturally, because that's what they are and who they are - and Hall's craft is to hone that into characters and situations, which, under the tutelage of director Roni Ellis, she does with ease.
The script shows that Libby and Salford Arts Theatre are not afraid to tackle challenging issues and the performers did well to show the fear and emotion needed for such a script. To help to balance the serious subjects being covered in the play there was an infusion of comedy weaved into some of the characters which helped to give the audience some lighter moments.
The Melting of a Single Snowflake is an ambitious and thought-provoking piece of theatre, which showcases the talents of the Salford Arts Theatre’s young performers company and of its writer-in-residence, Libby Hall (who came through the company herself). A very enjoyable show that packs an unexpected punch.
Libby Hall has a good ear for dialogue—"This is my ‘resting bitch’ face". Many of the storylines in the play have the ring of truth including a character so traumatised by Sam’s fate she turns vegan as eating any meat reminds her of human flesh. The thriller aspects of the play are very well handed and the motivation of the murderer is credible.
Libby Won Best Newcomer at the Greater Manchester Fringe Festival 2018
The cast of 11 aged between 11 - 16yrs old Won Best Ensemble
Thing We Tell The Hours After Midnight By Libby Hall
Review *****
"Gripping, thought provoking piece of theatre"
"Hall doesn't shy away from hard hitting topics faced by teenagers living in the mordern world; homophobia, islamophobia, terrorism, self harm, online trolls - it's all included"
"A standing ovation well and truly deserved"
Salford Star Best Drama - For her debut play Things We Tell The Hours After Midnight
