Review: Fade at The Lowry is ‘a heartfelt play that connects well with the audience’

Fade follow two siblings, Cassie and Rubin as they reflect on their relationship after reuniting following the death of their mother.

The first half is quite bouncy. The clubland classics playing in the background make it feel like a gradual exploration of a bittersweet youth with the siblings being paired with the nostalgic essence of 90’s music.

As the story develops, it becomes a more difficult watch. You may want it to end a certain way, but not all tales have happy endings.

Unsettling presence

As the powerful bond between them is explored, you begin to understand how their close relationship develops through the years by watching the parallels between their younger selves. The portrayal of the sibling dynamics is reflected throughout with an unspoken connection from the trauma bond they have experienced together.

There is an unsettling presence of a woman we never see – the mother. The conversation between Cassie (played by Daneka Etchells and Lauren-Nicole Mayes) and Rubin (played by Matthew Devlin and Stefan Race) gives a haunting exploration of the effects of depression on others within their circle.

The play is set exclusively in Cassie’s room which Lucy Sneddon designs brilliantly, from the early 2000’s girlish magazine cut outs across the bed and wall to the dampened and discoloured walls which reflect the lack of change in this harsh environment.

Heartfelt

Alice Christina-Corrigan has written an extremely heartfelt play that connects well with the audience through her moving writing. She delivers moments with some humorous dialogue and this provides a quick and welcome break from the intensity of the piece.

She is a visually impaired and a neurodivergent writer and director. It was important for her to create a team that reflects this and she is keen in securing disability representation through all elements of the production with access embedded into every part of the decision-making process.

All the actors give excellent performances with Lauren Nicole Mase the standout performer for me. She portrays Cassie’s younger self as a stoic character who adapts throughout the play and it is stunning to see.

Fade will appeal to and resonate with many people, whether it’s with the trauma or just the sibling dynamic. It’s a great night out which celebrates wonderful writing and the effect it can have on an audience.

Fade has finished its short run at The Lowry but you can read more about the play, the writer and director and how The Lowry develops work with local artists here.