Bush Theatre
At Shepherds Bush beside the Green you will find the Bush. A theatre with a reputation reverberating in the Capital. Finally I got to experience it first hand and how pleased I was to discover inside a bookshop and library.
Rebecca Lenkiewicz
The Invisible was first brought to my attention via a retweet of Guardian’s interview with the playwright Rebecca Lenkiewicz (Her Naked Skin).
Alexandra Gilbreath
British legal aid is cut and Gail (Alexandra Gilbreath) a lawyer in her forties is struggling to keep open her law centre in Uxbridge, London. Having read the playtext beforehand it came across preachy, yet onstage each scene evokes different emotions revealing Lenkiewicz’s talent. Gail’s unfortunate dating choices provide comical moments as she energetically defends her lifestyle. Adding to the comedy Niall Buggy in both his roles is full of vivacity, particularly when playing the doctor. The remaining cast deliver their parts with vigour although Nicholas Bailey at times comes across a little weak. Sirine Saba steals the limelight as the Pakistani immigrant, furthermore her secretary role is equally at par. During Saba’s final scene her depiction of harsh reality is a tear-jerking performance.
Sirine Saba, Scott Karim
Mixed critic reviews are around the three star mark, which undermines the prominent political theme. It is easy for someone like myself to resonate with Michael Billington’s theatrical experiences. With this final sentence in his review I disagree as what one takes from a play is from their individual perception.
The play entertains as it informs, but one would like a drama with which one can occasionally argue as well as instinctively agree.
The playwright’s intention must also be taken into consideration. Is the play supposed to be challenged or is it a mere portrayal of actual life? Lenkiewicz is doing what artists do best by drawing attention to the topic. Quentin Letts on the other hand once again takes his critique to another level. Expressing dismay towards the sponsors, which places him right outside the spectrum of the Bush audience. Is Letts taste suited to bigger firms sponsoring less political productions? Funnily enough his support of Michael Gove in this article brought back to memory his dismay towards Hang, a play on capital punishment. I shudder to think what Letts constitutes a good play?
The Invisible is left-wing drama and whether you agree with it’s message or not, it does provide insight into diverse British communities.
The Audience Experience 