What happens after you die is a question that has been – and will be – eternally asked. In The Life and Sort of Death of Eric Argyle, what happens is something like a tribunal. And while this does not sound like anything new, this is a play that takes a look at life and death with a fresh and spirited perspective, examining a life marked out by deaths and the lives of those left behind. There is past here, and present, but most importantly, the future.

The cast of eight beautiful young things are talented performers all, moving skillfully from character to narrator to musician. The intricate plot moves at a lively pace, propelled by narration and complemented by Rob Kearns’ engaging score. There are still questions we are left asking, however: who is making the decision Eric is faced with in the afterlife? And why, exactly? But Ross Dungan’s writing is poignant without becoming sentimental, seasoned generously with humour and populated by memorable characters.

Life and death are the oldest of themes, but 15th Oak treats the subject with energy and originality, delivered with director Dan Herd’s adept touch. And while these themes are literal within the play, they stop short of blatant; there is a subtlety and sensitivity present here that is rare in so young a company.

Star rating: ★★★★