In Review: Big Finish: Doctor Who: The Eighth Doctor Adventures: Causeway

Synopsis: The Causeway beckons our intrepid heroes.

Exploring with best friends Audacity and Charley, the Doctor delights in showing them the wonders of the universe. But something dogs their footsteps.

Review: Doctor Who: The Eighth Doctor Adventures: Causeway brought the initial phase of Audacity’s tenure aboard the Tardis to a close. Going forward, she, Charley, and the Doctor are forever changed.

Story

Throughout the two stories, causeway meant different things to different characters. The featured literal bridge embodied esoteric and poignant themes within its structure.

“Lost Amongst the Stars” by Rochana Patel presented as a ghost story for late autumn listeners. However, what began as a tale about bridging life and death became even more fraught by the end.

As events progressed, I appreciated how Aurora and Sparky bridged the divide between human and mech. I also liked how the antagonists defined bridge in their own creepy and comprehensive way.

Lastly, I  liked how the final scene acted as a causeway between  the two stories in this set. It gave developments even more weight.

“The Time You Never Had” by Tim Foley offered brilliant world-building. It also painted a bitter sweet portrait of post traumatic stress, loss, and joy.

Along the way, I loved meeting Mr Barabbas and Annika. I hope this wasn’t the last we hear from them.

Acting

The entire cast was excellent. That said, I must single out two performances.

First, Richard Hope was delightfully affecting and romantic as Mr Barabbas. It would be wonderful if Big Finish gave him and Neve McIntosh a story together.

As lovely as Hope and the other performers were, though, the box set belonged to Jaye Griffiths. She continued to imbue Audacity with depth, gravitas, vulnerability, and wonder.

Overall

Doctor Who: The Eighth Doctor Adventures: Causeway brought the first chapter of this arc to a thoughtful close. I can’t wait to hear what comes next for the Eighth Doctor and his friends.

You can purchase Doctor Who: The Eighth Doctor Adventures: Causeway here.