'Somehow, we ended up writing a brand new play' the programme explains optimistically. Sadly, it isn't a great one, although it could have been better if it hadn't been for the succession of short scenes, every one of which was punctuated by many prop changes. These drained the presentation of momentum. Throughout, there seemed to be an almost obsessive regard for details which didn't seem to be important.

The play is a version of Medea by the Ancient Greek writer Euripides, but set in the modern age. So there can be - quite a nice idea - a reconciliation scene that takes place in a chat show. Radio broadcasts help to establish the plot, which is basically that of Medea's revenge on her husband. He has left her for the daughter of the King, though whether for love or some other reason remains unclear.

The cast do their best, but the material is thin to say the least, and though there are occasional flashes of quality, these are few and seldom. Joanne Weight as Perra emerges with some dignity, but ponderous direction – and all those props – keep getting in the way of the plot, let alone the performances.

Cast Credits: (alpha order): Sarah Jones - Gabriella. Mike McDonough - Max Schell. Steve Risborough - Lucien van Horne. Arinder Sadhra - Malina Kane. Laurence Ward - Jason Kane. Joanna Weight - Petra.

Company Credits: Writer - Euripides (c 480-406 BC). Writer - Cast. Director - Pam Parry. Music - Andrew Claridge. Lighting Designer - uncredited. Sound Designer - uncredited. Technical Operator - uncredited. Producer - uncredited. Company - Fold Up Theatre.

END

(c) Michael Spring 2008

reviewed Monday, 11 August 2008 / Camden People's Theatre

Fringe Report (c) Fringe Report 2002-2012

www.fringereport.com