Review: Everything and Nothing (Lion and Unicorn Theatre)

Everything and Nothing is a production by Never Over Theatre, and I was invited to review it, having already pencilled it into my diary to go and see. So, of course, I gladly went along to review.

The first thing I noticed as I walked into the performance space at the Lion and Unicorn Theatre was the beautifully crafted backdrop (Aurelie Freoua), which was instantly recognisable as Amsterdam. Later, this changed to also depict London and Copenhagen. The use of this artwork was a very clever way of showing where the action was taking place without having to spell it out on stage.

The opening scenes took place at a wedding and as an audience member I felt as if I was observing the somewhat chaotic gathering of people before a ceremony, heightened levels of stress and all. Alex (Gabriela Godinho-Moxon) appeared on stage first, unsure of where she was going, but was guided to sit on the groom’s side. Then once Oscar (Harry Legget) had appeared and sat next to her, the focus was on their interactions for some time.

At this point I have to mention the choice of costumes, in particular the red dress worn by Sal (Cara Chedid) which was stunning, but also the subtle colour choices with Alex’s dress and Oscar’s shirt which brought an instant connection before they even started talking.

I deliberately avoid spoilers in my reviews so what I can say about the plot is limited as there were a couple of points that came up between Alex and Oscar I particularly liked but don’t want to give away the narrative for people who may see the show in future.  In summary, this is intelligent writing depicting what can happen when you meet another individual and instantly feel a connection. However, it also explores other types of human relationships alongside the romantic ones.

The play is not a two-hander, although the focus is very much on Alex and Oscar. After the wedding, Oscar returns to Copenhagen and has an insightful conversation with Andrea (Krista Larsen). Zoe Zimin must be mentioned here for vocal production, as their accents were very convincing. Michael, the groom from the wedding, seemed to think Alex and Oscar would make the perfect couple. There were other characters along the way who also moved the story forward.

Music was very effective in enhancing the action on stage. (The soundtrack is available to stream if you wish to have a listen.)

If there was one thing I would like to see as the show continues to develop, it would be a little more back story on the other characters involved. Alex and Oscar feel fully developed and strong characters who would not be impacted on by additional fleshing out of some of the others.

As someone who would not put romance at the top of their genre list, I have found myself thinking about this production more than I expected to since watching it. Gabriella Godinho-Moxon not only performed as the main character but also wrote, directed and produced this play. Her performance was deliberate and authentic and one that draws you back in to think, long after you leave the theatre and the other characters slightly fade from view.

⭐⭐⭐⭐

This sold out run of Everything and Nothing has now finished.

If you would like to see my curtain call photographs from this and other shows, please visit my Instagram.

I was gifted a ticket for this show in exchange for an honest review.