**** The Guardian

John R Wilkinson’s absorbing production thrives on simplicity and space, allowing the storytelling and subtle shifts in lighting and sound to transport our imaginations – as well as leaving the gaps that expose where imagination and empathy fall short.

***** The Stage
This feels like theatre at its most fundamental; just a man standing in front of us telling a story, and yet, it is also a profound act of engaging your empathy.

***** York Mix
The simple and stripped back set works perfectly. Designer Natasha Jenkins uses chairs in a multitude of ways to a very effective – and occasionally devastating – result. Aiding our imagination is Max Pappenheim’s soundscape conjuring hope in horror, and Benny Goodman’s lighting design is a fitting degree of dramatic.

***** West End Best Friend
The set (designed by Natasha Jenkins) consists of five black school chairs and a brown fabric screen which, although simple, is striking. Benny Goodman’s lighting is cleverly used to enhance the set, with simple LED strip lights transforming the space from a forest, to a beach, to a haunting site of tragedy. The performance space feels intimate, with Simpson not only stepping out of the stage space demarcated by these lights, but also joining the audience; taking a seat with us and encouraging reflection on the harrowing themes being discussed.

The Last Picture is a powerful amalgamation of humour, tragedy, history, and human emotion, and this production expertly encourages reflection on poignant social issues of both past and present.

This play is about empathy – its power, its limits, and what it asks of us. It’s about our shared past, our present, and the choices we face today.
Imagine yourself in a theatre in 2026. Now picture yourself as a Year 9 student on a school trip. And then, as a citizen of Europe in 1939, as history takes its darkest turn.

While you imagine, Sam will be by your side. Sam is an emotional support dog. Sam is here to look after you. Sam will keep everyone safe.

Writer
Catherine Dyson

Director
John R. Wilkinson

Designer
Natasha Jenkins

Lighting Designer
Benny Goodman

Sound Designer
Max Pappenheim

Movement Director
Alexia Kalogiannidis

Production Photography
JR Taylor Phptograhy