Adapted from two of Joseph Conrad’s colonial tales, ‘Splendid Isolation’ is as dark a comedy as you’re likely to see, this year or any other. This tale of two Englishmen in imperial Africa unflinchingly portrays their descent into opium-fuelled madness and betrayal. Though, or perhaps because, it’s a wordy play, particular praise must be given to Yvonne Wandera, who manages to pull off a haunting performance as servant girl Makota without one line of dialogue. Just one niggle: though advertised as based on ‘Heart of Darkness’, occasional references to a mysterious “Kurtz” never really lead to anything concrete – a shame, as they send shivers up the spine. Overall, though, this is a masterclass in understated brutality.
Pleasance Dome, 3 – 29 Aug (not 10, 17), 2.05pm (3.20pm), £11.00 – £14.00, fpp299.
tw rating 4/5
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Sections: by Ellie Blow - ED2011 Theatre Reviews - tw rating 4/5 | Tags: The Playground Studio, The Pleasance
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