REVIEW: CHEKHOV'S DILDO by Rex Fisher at The Hope Theatre 2 – 18 Feb 2023

‘a fun show with a sting in its tail’ ★★★★

Chekhov might be turning in his grave and his fans might be offended by the provocative title, but it does set up certain expectations (see ‘Chekhov’s gun). Billed as a ‘squeamishly funny break-up-sex comedy’ and with a free sachet of light lube (along with the programme) there is further evidence that the show will be raw, naked and in yer face.

Not a bit of it, whilst sex is high on the agenda, this well written show has a debate at its core which grounds it and prevents it from becoming a rant.    Rather like the ancient Greek tragedy, Antigone, it is about two people, both entrenched in their own perspectives and unable to compromise. This isn’t an equal match as one of them has power over the other. 

In the play it is Annabel’s x-lover and former university tutor, Rufus, who is seemingly taking advantage of his position and neglecting his ‘duty of care’.   After a nasty breakup, the pair are back in the bedroom, for a final romp but it is not as it seems.  Rufus, is about to get a tenureship and can’t afford any scandals, but Annabel is hell bent on revenge.   There is a satisfying feeling of tragedy and catharsis (in the Greek sense) whilst the show still reaps plenty of laugh out loud moments.

There are some nice touches in the play including references to Chekhov’s plays. The seagull hanging from the ceiling and what does Rufus call Annabel’s private parts?  It’s good sport to see how many titles you can notice.  Overall direction by Merle Wheldon-Posner is slick, and movement direction by Darcy Dixon is beautifully orchestrated. This latter is no small achievement considering there are one or two tricky sex scenes to work through.

Olivia Barrowclough as Annabel kept a fine balance in her role, remarkable considering the short rehearsal period. The occasional need for suspension of disbelief wasn’t too difficult to maintain, though at times Ruaridh Aldington as Rufus seemed a little too young and innocent, at odds with the character’s arrogance, heartlessness and ambition. These harder traits didn’t really show through, but perhaps it doesn’t matter in this fun show with a sting in its tail.

Photography by Tia-Ama Amihyia.

CHEKHOV'S DILDO by Rex Fisher

The Hope Theatre, Islington

2 – 18 February 2023

£13/£16

TICKETS https://www.thehopetheatre.com/productions/chekhovs-dildo/

Cast:

Annabel OLIVIA BARROWCLOUGH

Rufus RUARIDH ALDINGTON

Creatives:

Director MERLE WHELDON-POSNER

assistant director AMBER HESLOP

producer MERLE WHELDON-POSNER

set designer MAIA FRATEANTONIO

costume designer MAIA FRATEANTONIO

movement director DARCY DIXON

Reviewed by Heather Jeffery, Editor of London Pub Theatres Magazine