Five Reasons To See … What We’re Up Against

The production is directed by Rob Hale and designed by Vicki Stevenson. Here Hale gives us his five reasons to see the show.

1. Be the first to see Rebeck’s work in London

What We’re Up Against is the UK premiere of seven of Theresa Rebeck’s short plays. Be part of the discovery of a writer who has already made a big impression in New York – with more than 12 plays produced on and off Broadway, as well as a forthcoming series for NBC produced by Steven Spielberg, but who is surprisingly little known to London audiences.

2. This is a collection of punchy shorts

Describing the short play form as ‘like a fist’, come and take a few Rebeck punches. Each play is an expertly crafted little ‘hit’, brilliantly observed and “bristling” with “sharp-witted, shard elbowed comedy” according to the New York Times.

3. Come and witness some poor behaviour

“I do believe that there are monsters out there, and that they are monsters”. Paranoid architects, a funeral home mix-up, sodas and resentment on the beach. Witness betrayal, treason and poor behaviour in contemporary America – a lot of poor behaviour.

4. Support London Fringe theatre, at a time that it really needs it

In a climate where the arts are under attack, come and support theatre at grass roots level.

5. A production which is small but perfectly formed

Running one hour and 20 minutes with no interval and above a pub… you can either finish your night celebrating the performance or drowning your sorrows – it’s your choice!

What We’re Up Against plays the Old Red Lion Theatre from 10 February (previews from 8 February) to 3 March 2011.