EVERYBODY has had their fair share of bad days but few would be able to claim that they lead to anything other than frustration.

Elysian Fields, the first production under the new writer-in-residence, Nick Wilkes, places its protagonist in the worst day possible and uses to dissect and inspect the intricacies of life while cutting through the flab and hyperbole that can go with it.

With Murray Andrews turning in a tireless performance as Stephen Fields, the play provided a challenging, thought-provoking and darkly humorous look at both life and death without being morbid or superficial.

Taking place in a slightly dystopian looking airport departure lounge there are plenty of moments that get you thinking about your own life and those around you.

It leads you down a path of reflecting on decisions you’ve made, actions you have or haven’t taken, how you impact and influence others and what the point of it all actually is.

This all comes before a dramatic twist brings proceedings to a heart-warming conclusion as Stephen experiences an eureka moment of pure clarity.

With such a heavy subject matter it would be easy to leave the audience feeling deflated but it strikes the right balance between glancing to the past and looking at what lies ahead.

The action on stage is so gripping and all-consuming you almost forget that the illustrious Simon Callow voiced the poignant speech given by Stephen’s father, James.

With the second production from the venture due in the spring, it is time to get behind a brave and locally sourced pool of talent.

  • Elysian Fields runs in the Festival Theatre at Malvern Theatres until Saturday.