Written in 1923, this play by the author of Mary Broome, which was such a success last year, is set in a military family on the eve of the outbreak of the First World War. As the war approaches, the family is torn by the differing attitudes to the coming conflict. Conscientious objections to war are not easy principles to espouse at such a time and in such a family. 'Those that we call traitors may be the heroes - the men of conscience and ideals. It's my work to look into men's souls. It's truth I want, not this blatant simplicity. We are to be all one now. What a time! The day of the cheap patriot has come.' Running time: Act 1 1hr 5mins, Act II 45mins
This terrific revival, directed by the great man himself, of his 1979 three tiered farce, Taking Steps, shows off the man's genius for innovative theatre. Watching and reveling in it I kept thinking "how does he think them up?". It would be great if a place could be found for a transfer, I'm sure many more than the two hundred or so who get the privilege to see it each night would want to. That's two Ayckbourn's in Richmond in as many months - lucky ol' Richmond. - rds
Whatsonstage.com - Discount London theatre tickets, theatre news and reviews, Theatre videos, Theatre discussion, National Theatre Listings. Covering London's West End, all of Theatreland and all UK theatre. The best
for London Theatre Ticket Discounts.
