Cambridge Arts Theatre, Cambridge – until Saturday 8th June 2024
Reviewed by Steph Lott
4****
Party Games, a play written by Michael McManus and directed by Joanna Read, recently took the stage at the Cambridge Arts Theatre, offering a satirical take on the world of politics.
In the context of the UK in 2024, and with a General Election looming, “Party Games” takes on a particular level of relevance. The play’s premise, centered around John Waggner, the newly elected leader of the centrist One Nation Party, trying to maintain power in a hung parliament amid a discontented electorate and striking cheese makers, feels all too plausible given the current political landscape.
The play’s exploration of the lengths to which politicians will go to cling to power, including relying on a Svengali spin doctor and questionable data, strikes a chord in an era where trust in government is often strained. The inclusion of the King, and a large spider as potential allies adds an absurdist element that underscores the desperation and chaos of the situation. Unfortunately, that desperation and chaos feel all too familiar these days.
As John (played with great comedic panache by Matthew Cottle) navigates the treacherous waters of political survival, he is surrounded by a cast of characters, including Svengali Seth (Ryan Early), his assistant Luke (Shaun Chambers), and three women who complicate his life in various ways: his wife Anne, (Natalie Dunne), the Deputy Prime Minister Lisa (Erica Tavares-Kouassi), and Candice (Krissi John). Actually, it’s four females if you count the AI Medianne….
The acting in “Party Games” was top-notch, with each performer bringing their character to life with skill and nuance. Director Joanna Read’s vision for the play was evident in the pacing, staging, and artistic choices. The production moved at a brisk pace, keeping the audience engaged and entertained throughout. The staging made clever use of the space, with fluid transitions between scenes that kept the momentum going.
The technical aspects of the production were well-executed, enhancing the overall experience. Lighting and sound design were used effectively to create atmosphere and punctuate key moments in the story., cleverly bringing the outside world in. The costumes were appropriate for each character, helping to define their roles and personalities.
While “Party Games” was undeniably funny, with a script that delivered plenty of laughs, for me its impact was somewhat diminished by the current political climate. As the UK approaches a General Election, the real-life drama unfolding in the political arena can make satirical takes on politics feel very uncomfortable. Some of lines uttered by the characters were, sadly, very close to real life. Rather than being funny, they feel like a dismal reflection on the dire state of British politics.
Overall though, “Party Games” is a well-crafted and entertaining production that showcases the talents of its cast and creative team. The performances are strong, the direction is skilful, and the script impressive. For me it was unfortunate timing that the play is being performed on the brink of a General Election. However, that is no-one’s fault, and the audience enjoyed plenty of chuckles at the antics on stage. “Party Games” is an enjoyable night at the theatre, offering a humorous escape from the real-life political drama unfolding beyond the stage.