Cambridge Arts Theatre, Cambridge – until 12 June 2021.
Reviewed by Steph Lott
5*****
The timing and location of this production of David Mahmet’s play “Oleanna” could not be more fitting, given recent discussions and articles in the press concerning the difficult balance between preserving academic freedom and yet ensuring that students of all backgrounds are free to study and thrive. There are longstanding concerns about the ways universities and colleges tackle inappropriate behaviour between students and teaching staff, while retaining their fundamental commitment to free speech. This, along with the #metoo campaign, means that “Oleanna” remains as relevant today as it was when it was written in the 1990s.
What I enjoyed about this play was that it stimulates discussion and reflection about a very difficult subject. It doesn’t lead the members of audience to one conclusion or another but rather invites a consideration of both sides of the issue. There is no doubt that both characters are flawed. The professor certainly behaves unprofessionally – the question is to what degree, and if the reaction of the student is understandable or if she has over-reacted. I was thinking how interesting a Q&A session after the play would be, to share reactions and explore the issues that this play raises.
I was also struck by the issues of power this play raises, how at the start it appears that the Professor holds all the cards (he’s male, white, older, can determine if the student passes or fails), and knows it! Yet as the story progresses, so does the transfer of power.
I thought that both Jonathan Slinger, as John, the Professor, and Rosie Sheehy, as Carol, the Student, gave excellent performances. It’s not easy when there are only 2 characters in a play and the whole production is resting on their shoulders. The pacing and the development in their relationship had me captivated from start to finish and I found myself very caught up in what was happening between them, and very exasperated by their behaviour. I don’t want to say too much but the ending had me stunned. I think the audience’s enthusiastic applause at the end was well deserved.
As someone who works in education, I have been reflecting how true to life this play is. I think dramas such as the one in “Oleanna” are played out every day in our universities and colleges. I think this production underlines just how dangerous and damaging these situations can be.
In summary I would thoroughly recommend going to see this play. It was a thought-provoking and enjoyable production and its themes are just as relevant today as when it was first written and performed.