While T.S. Eliot’s Four Quartets are far from the cheery, uplifting welcome back to live theatre that some may be seeking, it is impossible to deny that Ralph Fiennes’ return to the stage is anything but incredible. The actor is well-known for his roles in distinguished feature films including recent James Bond movies and his BAFTA award-winning role in Schindler’s List. In spite of this, Fiennes proves that he needs no camera crew or Hollywood effects team to create something astounding as even a Monday night audience were largely taking to their feet in admiration of his passionate and stirring performance.

Not only does Fiennes recite Eliot’s entire Four Quartets from memory in a natural and sensitive manner, the actor also succeeds in portraying different personalities throughout the show. His versatility is highlighted during the evening, as Fiennes never leaves the stage and lulls the audience into believing that he is an entirely different character from merely adjusting his posture. Fiennes may be alone on the stage but he performs as if he is an entire ensemble, captivating the audience with Eliot’s thought-provoking and profound words.

The poetry explores time past, present and future as well as simultaneous time and yes, it is as complicated as it sounds. It was clear from the start that we were in for an intellectually emotional rollercoaster from the existence of a glossary within the programme. If that isn’t a clue about the bewildering writing being complex and highly perplexing, then I don’t know what is! Although much of the deeper meaning may have been lost on many audience members, T.S Eliot himself was convinced that this didn’t matter as the poetry should find its own individual meaning with each different person. It is important to note that this style of frankly baffling poetry isn’t everyone’s cup of tea but it is worth a taste just for the pleasure of being in the presence of such an exceptional actor.

The entire creative team is very small, though they are extremely gifted and have designed an impressive concept. With only a simple set, the space and minimal props are skilfully used in this rendition of the poetry. Even the set alludes to the poet’s immense struggles in a time of brutality and violence, written between World Wars. There is much for the audience to consider as Fiennes manipulates large, dark slabs on the stage between poems, without explanation. It is up to us to interpret their meaning, much like the entire work. What is clear, however, is that Fiennes has his own understanding and an emotional connection to Eliot’s writing. It seems that the actor is in an entirely separate space and time altogether as he not only represents but becomes the words which he speaks.

It is easy to forget that we are only metres away from Lord Voldermort himself as time ironically stands still during Fiennes’ performance. Other than being barefoot, there seem to be no other similarities between this character before us and arguably Fiennes’ most iconic role! It is truly Fiennes’ adaptability which makes him such an accomplished actor and one worthy of an audience during his solo tour.