The Hills of California

The Webb Sisters are returning to their mother's run-down guest house, Sea View, in Blackpool, 1976, during the driest summer in two hundred years. The beaches are packed, and the hotels are heaving, but the sisters can't see the sea from their windows.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 08 February 2024
Publisher: Nick Hern Books

This magnificent abode, known as Sea View, boasts an awe-inspiring moniker that fails to meet its expectations. Despite my diligent exploration of every window, I have encountered an unfortunate truth: you cannot glimpse the vast expanse of the sea. It seems as if the sea has deliberately hidden itself from view, leaving me yearning for the soothing embrace of the ocean's salty waves.

Nestled in the vibrant city of Blackpool, England, in the year 1976, history unfolds amidst a scorching summer that marks the driest in two hundred years. The beaches, normally bustling with tourists, are now teeming with people, their laughter and excitement filling the air. The hotels, too, are bursting at the seams, accommodating the countless visitors seeking respite from the scorching sun. However, amidst the chaos and excitement of the bustling streets, a quiet and somber tale unfolds. The Webb Sisters, a family of three, find themselves returning to their mother's dilapidated guest house, a sanctuary of memories and solace amidst her final days upstairs.

Written by the talented Jez Butterworth, The Hills of California is a captivating play that made its debut at the Harold Pinter Theatre in London's West End in 2024. Under the masterful direction of Sam Mendes and with the collaborative production of Sonia Friedman Productions and Neal Street, this play captivates audiences with its powerful storytelling and profound themes.

The Webb Sisters, portrayed with depth and complexity by the talented cast, find themselves navigating the tumultuous dynamics of their family. As their mother lies dying upstairs, the sisters are forced to confront the harsh realities of life, love, and loss. The guest house, once a symbol of their mother's love and hospitality, now holds a bittersweet nostalgia, reminding them of the memories they shared and the sacrifices they have made.

The play explores the complexities of human relationships, the weight of secrets, and the search for redemption. The Webb Sisters are each grappling with their own demons, their pasts haunting them relentlessly. They are forced to confront the choices they have made and the consequences that have shaped their lives, as they navigate the delicate balance between love and loyalty, forgiveness and retribution.

The Hills of California is a masterfully crafted play that delves into the human condition with honesty and empathy. Through its vivid characters, intricate plot, and stunning visuals, it invites audiences to reflect on the intricacies of life, the choices we make, and the impact we have on those around us. It is a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of theatre to connect with audiences on a profound level.

As the Webb Sisters return to their mother's guest house, they are accompanied by the echoes of their past and the weight of their present. The play unfolds in a series of intimate scenes, each revealing a different facet of the sisters' lives. The guest house, with its peeling walls and faded decor, serves as a metaphor for the decaying relationships within the family. The sea, once a source of hope and inspiration, now appears distant and elusive, mirroring the sisters' emotional distance from each other.

The performances by the cast are nothing short of exceptional, bringing the characters to life with raw emotion and authenticity. The chemistry between the sisters, played by Lily James, Holliday Grainger, and Emily Watson, is palpable, as they navigate the complexities of their relationship with each other and their mother. The supporting cast, including Sam Claflin, Ruth Wilson, and Paul Jesson, adds depth and dimension to the story, each contributing their unique perspectives and struggles.

The staging of the play is masterful, with the use of lighting, sound, and movement creating a haunting and atmospheric environment. The stage design, by Rob Howell, seamlessly blends the physical space of the guest house with the emotional turmoil of the characters, creating a sense of claustrophobia and tension. The sound design, by Ian Dickinson, adds to the immersive experience, with the sound of the sea and the echoes of the past haunting the sisters throughout the play.

The Hills of California is a play that leaves a lasting impression on its audience. It explores the complexities of family relationships, the power of forgiveness, and the importance of letting go. Through its powerful storytelling and exceptional performances, it invites us to reflect on our own lives and the choices we have made. It is a testament to the enduring power of theatre and the ability of art to connect with audiences on a profound level.

In conclusion, The Hills of California is a must-see play that will leave you pondering the intricacies of life and the choices we make. Jez Butterworth's masterful storytelling and the exceptional performances by the cast transport audiences to the heart of the Webb Sisters' journey, leaving a lasting impact on their hearts and minds. This play is a testament to the power of theatre and the ability of art to inspire, challenge, and connect with audiences on a profound level.

Dimension: 198 x 129 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839043154