Review: Pontypool

Welsh horror story uses zombies, gore and humour to reflect on today’s society

Lloyd Hutchinson (left), Victoria John (middle), and Ioan Hefin (right). Credit: WMC

Pontypool, 30 October-16 November 2024, Wales Millennium Centre

This cult-classic horror story of a local radio team trapped in a zombie apocalypse is adapted for the stage by Hefin Robinson.

Filled with sparse furniture, and quirky props, the detailed set immediately creates the atmosphere of Beacon Radio, a small station in the south Wales valleys. The action kicks off with a dramatic blackout, and audio delivered perfectly by Lloyd Hutchinson echoes around the theatre, setting a haunting tone.

The mix of  clever sound effects throughout creates a perfect atmosphere for the show’s plot.  

Ioan Hefin was not on stage for long, but he gave a memorable performance that captivated the audience

The actors all brought their characters to life with equal vibrancy. Hutchinson’s character Grant Mazzy is the classic too-big-for-his-boots archetype.  Thanks to Hutchinson’s relatable and sharp-witted deliverance of Mazzy, he instantly  became an audience favourite.  

Victoria John gave  a dazzling performance as Rhiannon Briar. She may have been the last of the main trio on stage, but she immediately commanded the space. Mali O’Donnell terrified  the audience with a talented portrayal of a young person who moves from good to evil.

Mali O’Donnell as Megan Davies. Credit: WMC

Ioan Hefin was not on stage for long, but he gave a memorable performance that captivated the audience. And the voiceovers on the radio delivered hilarious side-stories throughout.

And while he never appeared on stage, the audio character Kevin, voiced by Carwyn Jones, created enormous emotion and was very impressive. 

Both cast and crew helped to deliver a brilliantly executed political horror that will make the audience reflect and question the “‘show” of life, and what truth is.