A theatrical critic’s response to a production of a modern play in ancient costume
Dull, dowdy, dire and depressing are the words that come to mind: the plot is dull, the stage-set dowdy, the costumes dire and the script depressing.
The plot, if there is one, centres on the mindless outbursts of a jumped-up, pseudo-intellectual who mopes around in a squalid bed-sit railing at his partner and sundry acquaintances who flit in and out in their chitons treading on or tripping over each other’s garments.
Why 20th century characters are dressed in Greek attire is anybody’s guess. If it was meant to add gravitas, it fails miserably. After watching the robes unravel, unfastened fibulas fall on the floor and carelessly slung himations slipping off shoulders, any sense of gravitas degenerates into pure farce.
With no change of scenery throughout and the central character forever fuming, the final curtain comes as a blessing. Look Back In Anger? You certainly will after seeing it.
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