A Captivating Renaissance: Unraveling the Magnificence of Polly Stenham’s Debut Masterpiece

2023-09-18 00:15:08

Excellent Revival for Polly Stenham's Iconic Debut Play

Polly Stenham's debut play, "That Face," gained widespread acclaim when she wrote it at just 19 years old. However, it is important to note that its success was not solely due to her youth. While other plays from the 2000s have lost their impact over time, "That Face" remains a powerful and poignant production.

The play tells the story of Mia and Henry, two teenagers abandoned by their narcissistic mother and wealthy father. Stenham draws from her own experiences to create a sharp and raw depiction of betrayal and dysfunctional parenting. The balance of tragedy and comedy is masterfully crafted, making it a compelling theatrical experience.

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The Plot

The play begins at a girls' boarding school, where Mia and her posh friend Izzy subject a new dorm mate to a hazing ritual. However, the situation takes a dark turn when Mia secretly administers a large dose of Prozac to the girl. As panic ensues, Mia's suspension leads her to her brother Henry and their deeply troubled mother Martha.

Martha, portrayed by renowned actress Niamh Cusack, delivers a captivating performance as a raging and pathetic character. However, Martha's extreme messiness feels exaggerated and lacks proper explanation, which is one of the play's weaknesses.

The Dynamics of Family

Stenham skillfully explores the complexities of family dynamics, particularly how children adapt their behavior to maintain harmony. Mia, usually sullen and snarky towards her parents, becomes eager to please when the family is together, protecting Henry from the consequences of his hostility towards their father. Meanwhile, Henry has lost himself in the role of caretaker, adopting different personas depending on who he interacts with.

Production and Performances

The set design by Eleanor Bull, featuring an institutional-looking bed, effectively symbolizes the family as a dysfunctional institution. The cast delivers outstanding performances, with Ruby Stokes standing out as the obnoxiously brattish yet sympathetic Mia. Director Josh Seymour's no-frills approach and the intimate setting of the Orange Tree Theatre add to the intensity of the play's piercing prose.

Polly Stenham may never surpass the impact of "That Face," but this revival highlights its status as a timeless and essential portrayal of teenage frustration.

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