Memory Cells written by Louise Welsh and directed by Hannah Eidinow is a chilling psychological thriller centred on the relationship of a young hostage, Cora (Emily Taaffe) and her abductor Barry (John Stahl) This is not a particularly comfortable theatre experience. Brave creative choices have been made and the tangible tension evoked from the chilling sound effects and stark staging is apparent throughout. Louise Welsh is clearly a writer of great merit, and one of her many strengths is the ability to successfully create this claustrophobic, nightmarish world Cora has been forced to inhabit. Although the slow pace and repetitive sound effects are somewhat frustrating, this once again feels like a conscious literary and directorial decision to make the spectators actively feel the horror of this grim situation. Nothing is given away to the audience too easily and the non linear structure further serves the overall enigmatic nature of the piece. Audience members are never quite sure who the villain is and who the victim and this slow revelation of the truth make the pre-determined and unavoidable conclusion all the more harrowing. Emily Taaffe and John Stahl both give hugely committed performances. Stahls tall and lumbering build next to Taaffes slight frame works well aesthetically. Stahl is at his best when his blunt delivery makes Barrys motivation for this cruel act completely unreadable. Taaffe is electrifying as Cora and turns in a particularly strong character journey especially in her Stockholm Syndrome moments, where the chemistry between the two characters is most effective.Memory Cells albeit a rather nasty and unpleasant encounter, poses a great deal of questions about love, protection, power and obsession. There are no weak links in writing, direction or performance and the end result is a powerful and thought provoking piece.
