Review: WELCOME TO PEMFORT at Soho Theatre

We’re gathered at the gift shop of a rundown ancient relic — the Pemfort of the title — which is neither a castle, nor a mere bell tower, but something in between. Despite being a very minor tourist attraction, it benefits from a fairly violent history going back to the Battle of the Bishops and for those in desperate need of hooks with which to reel-in more visitors, a variety of other ancient and more recent events of notoriety. But how should the team approach these events to properly monetise their attraction’s potential without glorifying violence?

Keeping things ticking over and eager to find those additional revenue streams to fund much needed repairs, are Glenn (Ali Hadji-Heshmati) the officiously organised and deeply informed de facto leader of the group of misfits. He is well versed in matters historical, whilst also being very clearly on the spectrum having endured a difficult upbringing about which we learn more than is comfortable, whilst he is holding a sword. Uma (Debra Gillett) is the bustling mother hen of the piece, eager to prompt but also willing to stand back and allow her fledgling flock to explore and reach their full potential. She offers words of encouragement (and caution where necessary) and proves a wise owl having experienced her own difficulties with addiction which inform her sympathetic approach towards those she sees as being in need of understanding and a fresh start. One such individual is Kurtis (Sean Delaney) whom she has brought onboard to assist in the shop and with preparations for the big day of events which is being decided at the top of the show. When Ria (Lydia Larson) discovers Kurtis behind the counter of the gift shop, she is initially nonplussed and curious, but as their interactions develop, a clear — if cautious attraction begins to develop.

Everything about the set-up, the environment, the gradual reveal of personalities, is hugely endearing, funny and delightfully naturalistic. Without resorting to stereotypes, Power has written wholly believable characters, and more importantly, furnished them with dialogue to enable them to leap off the page. In less assured hands the piece might struggle, but here director Ed Madden is blessed with four actors who gel so seamlessly, you’d be forgiven for believing they see each other every day at Pemfort’s gift shop. The play exudes a gentle, unassuming charm and as love blossoms we settle-in for a joyously pleasant journey, only to have the tables turned when a revelation requires the sort of heart-searing honesty and admission of wrongdoing which knots the stomach and squeezes your throat. The agony of the situation and its seeming no-way-out ending, comes as a bolt and leaves the audience stunned and silent for a time.

When finally the big day arrives and the four get to welcome local residents to Pemfort’s big historical open day, there are swordplay re-enactments and other fun events to enjoy, but naggingly there is one matter which has yet to be addressed and it ensures that the play ends with a shocking cliffhanger.

Welcome to Pemfort runs 90 mins straight through and plays until 18th April. I cannot recommend it highly enough and strongly urge you to see it.