Drayton Arms – until 15 June 2019
Reviewed by Heather Chalkley
3***
An intense and darkly comedic piece played by 3 talented actors. Time is suspended as you are drawn into their small world. A small flat is their whole world. Tensions mount as things start to go wrong. Each issue a symbolic reflection of life outside and how we cope with uncomfortable changes to the status quo.
We can all recognise some of ourselves in each character. This piece challenges us to reflect on what part we play in our own and the wider world. Hester Tallack is a believable underdog, becoming excruciatingly uncomfortable when asked to make a decision. It feels like Klara Kaliger is her character, giving impactful direct eye contact with the audience at times. Esra Alma’s character likes the continuity of their life and is the main challenger to change, causing a physical fight with the dominant Kaliger.
The staging and props were cleverly placed, giving the characters clearly defined sections of the performance space. The bland ‘grey’ and ‘mush’ that they ate and drank looked totally disgusting! All 3 characters used the space in a fluid, confident manner, giving the impression they have been there a long time.
Although a well-acted performance, the concept is very cerebral. I suggest anyone intending to see Everything Today is the Same, look it up first to get a handle on what is going on. Fans of political comedy will get a darker, deeper experience to the usual belly laugh theatre.