How do you review an experience? Girl from the North Country written and directed by Conor McPherson, using the music and lyrics of Bob Dylan is just that.

By Angie Millard

McPherson uses the vehicle of a guest house in the American depression to act as a frame for Dylan’s glorious lyrics and music. He creates diverse characters from varied walks of life who come together as residents of the guest house or denizens of the town to create a story. As the programme states: 20 actors and musicians play performers and broadcast the story, as well as the characters within it. They sing to the audience not to each other.

Life has not been kind to any of them and the subtle choice of Dylan’s melodies and poetic lyrics highlights a range of complex emotions. 

Elizabeth, the proprietor’s wife, (Frances McNamee) suffers from dementia. Her portrayal of the role was subtle and clever and her rendition of Like a Rolling Stone not only showcased her extraordinary voice but forced you to listen and appreciate the quality of Dylan’s lyrics. As it segues into Make You Feel My Love, the contrast of emotion was almost shocking. Simon Hale, as musical arranger should be congratulated.

Colin Connor played the proprietor’s son, a wastrel who loses his love and the duet of I Want You with Eve Norris brought out the poignancy of the song which Dylan normally takes at three times the speed.

Throughout, the ensemble produced amazing combinations of dance to accompany their backing melodies.

Lucy Hind as Movement Director created a blend of bee-bop, waltz and freestyle movement, never obtrusive but always key.

Rae Smith did a fabulous job on set and costume. The  screens and photographic backdrop were understated but very effective and the detail of the costume gave important reality to the production.

I could talk about plot and the weaving of themes McPherson achieves but that would dilute the effect of his choices. I became aware of Dylan’s use of wind as a metaphor for change, not the obvious Blowing in the Wind but many other references, including Idiot Wind, that serendipitous force which surrounds us. Senor (Tales of Yankee Power) showed his awareness of living on the street and being close to the breadline. The many meals and celebrations the cast share, the sheer bloodiness of life during the depression, their bravery and endurance, all resonate today.

The show ends with Forever Young, a message to us all to retain our optimism.

Dylan read McPherson’s script, liked it, and gave permission for him to go ahead. He gave McPherson carte blanche to use any songs, in any way he liked, demonstrating unequivocally utter confidence in the power of his music.

The result is a masterly tribute by a very talented impresario.

Girl From The North Country is being performed at York Theatre Royal on from 6 to 10 September 2022.