Strong staging and central performances raise this questionable script into something quite impressive. ‘The Forum’ refers to an internet forum – something, it seems, that is fast becoming a new aspect of the cultural zeitgeist for playwrights to explore. The characters each go by their handles for most of the play – BrokenAndLonely, JustMeOnlyMe, etc. Whilst online, their speech is directed at the audience, even though they’re conversing with the character who is physically located next to them. It’s a clear nod to compartmentalised relationships on the internet, but unfortunately the story itself is a fairly typical one that lifts current tabloid themes of cyber bullying, teenage alcoholism, and closeted homosexuality, so that by the play’s conclusion it feels more like box ticking than plot.
Underbelly, 4 – 28 Aug (not 15), 11.15pm (0.15am), £8.00 – £10.50, fpp263.
tw rating 3/5
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Sections: by Julian Benson - ED2011 Theatre Reviews - tw rating 3/5 | Tags: Siren's Production Company, Underbelly
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