Vita and Virginia (Oxford)

Vita and Virginia is a rare example of epistolary theatre – a play put together from extracts from the correspondence of its central characters over a twenty-year period. Through their own words, Eileen Atkins’s adaptation shows us the highs and lows of the lives of two notable twentieth-century writers.

A piece like this stands or falls on the quality of its cast, and fortunately ElevenOne Theatre has two fine actors playing the eponymous women. Ida Persson is delightful as a slightly swaggering Vita Sackville-West, while Helen Taylor portrays Virginia Woolf with engaging charm and sensitivity. Cate Field’s direction is subtle but effective, bringing out the nuances of the characters as we explore the development of their relationship. Lady Margaret Hall’s Old Library is an attractive (if rather bijou) venue, and complements the production nicely.

My one quibble was with the ending: knowing that one of the protagonists took her own life, I was anticipating a rather downbeat conclusion, but despite knowing what was coming, the end felt somewhat abrupt – although this seems to be a flaw in the script rather than the production.

ElevenOne is fast acquiring a reputation for slightly offbeat yet thoroughly enjoyable theatre, and this is no exception. Overall, this is an excellent example of small-scale performance done well, and promises an evening that is moving, educational, and entertaining – all at the same time.

– Meriel Patrick

Runs until Saturday 26 May, tickets from www.ticketsoxford.com or 01865 305305