Helter Skelter/Land of the Dead

Synopsis

You know what fools us, tricks us into thinking that it isn’t really happening down the block and in our state and across the ocean? We get used to it always being somebody else. In a chic restaurant in New York city, a man and his wife meet to take a break from Christmas shopping. He doesn’t know that she has already seen him today. Elsewhere in town, a couple part. He goes to the office, she visits a clinic. As events unfold, it becomes clear that this is not just any ordinary day.

Our Review:

18 January 2008

As you ascend the stairs to the Bush Theatre, the walls are plastered with messages protesting the Arts Council cuts. The Bush is in line to lose 40 percent of its £180,000 annual grant. If the theatre’s appeal is not successful, I shall boil my own head in despair.

For the best argument for the necessity of the Bush’s survival under new artistic director Josie Rourke – and, for heaven’s sake, how many talented 31-year-old directors are prepared these days to take on the task of running a top theatre? – is, as always, in the black box at the summit.

Neil LaBute is the most interesting of contemporary American dramatists, and it is absolutely right that the Bush should host this UK premiere of two recent short, sharp plays – Land of the Dead plays for 20 minutes, Helter Skelter for just under an hour – in association with the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre in Guildford – another, very different, invaluable venue disgracefully targeted by ...

Read more of the review

Latest User Review

rds - 3 February 2008:

Stunning performance from Ruth Gemmell. I really don't think I should describe either piece as they both contain surprises but suffice it to say the writing is by turn heart rending and humourous. Skillfully performed by all but it is Ms gemmell who stands out. Stylishly designed by Sara Perks and with restrained and understated direction from Patricia Benecke it makes a hat trick for the women - which should keep Nick Hytner happy! The two plays run a shade over 70 minutes with no interval and I will eat my hat if ms Gemmell doesn't get Best Actress for this quite extraordinary performance. The best I have had the pleasure of seeing for a while mow. The Bush yet again proving what a great production house it is and having that day also been reprieved by the Arts Council (a misnomer if ever there was one) from having it's grant cut. Hooray!...

Read more and add your own review