The Absence of War
The Absence of War at Theatre Royal
With the general elections hot on our heels, it’s no surprise that people are trying to reassure us that the Labour Party still remember their roots down in the mines with all us working-class folk, but this play certainly wasn’t a ‘Yeah! Everyone vote for Labour!’ sign board in someone’s front garden. No, it was a gentle reminder that even though the "working-class party" may not have bought us the results we wanted when they were in power, they still are there to represent us, and in my opinion, to show that you can still maintain a little personality in politics (I hope you’re taking notes Ed…).
The leader of the Socialist party in this performance was played by Reece Dinsdale, an incredibly charismatic guy who struggles to get his character and personality across to the voters. Some may say this reflects the issue poor ol’ Ed is having in the run up to these elections, the on-going battle between authenticity and electability. Does he listen to what his paid professionals tell him to say, or should he get all passionate and shouty when he’s on his little podium at the risk of a little blunder on a TV show or at a public appearance?
I enjoyed The Absence of War as it makes people aware of the struggles that Labour goes through to get their votes. There was a very minimalistic set, with no backdrops, and the only changes were wheeling on different tables, chairs and televisions. I did enjoy the performances but by the end of it, I won’t lie to you, I was yawning. I did feel, other than Dinsdale, that none of the characters really had any depth, just a lot of monologues.
It was funny, interesting and eye-opening. However I felt some of it’s essence was lost due to the fact it was being performed to a large majority right-wing theatre attending audience.
