A UK Review In (Exactly) 250 Words: "Electra" at the Bunker Theatre
Harriet Wilson
- United Kingdom Critic
Electra, currently playing at London's Bunker Theatre, is John Ward's punk-rock, modernised retelling of a Greek myth in which a family tears itself apart in a savage fight for power, and revenge. Electra is a small production, simple in many ways, but tense, convincing and atmospheric.
The simplicity of the staging of Electra leaves the seven actors in this play very exposed but, since the play is acted extremely well, this just adds to the texture of the production. The dynamics of Electra shift constantly from dry humour, to intense character journeys (to live, punk-rock music), which means that it remains gripping and interesting throughout.
Music is an integral part of Electra, adding an energetic new level to the play, and drawing it into the modern day. Atmospheric lighting also helps to make the production feel edgy, and compelling. It comes across as a little self-indulgent at times, but this is not a complete surprise considering the content of the story.
Electra is performed by a cast of seven actor-musicians. Lydia Larson takes on the title role, effortlessly drawing the audience into the turmoil of her character's life and mind. Switching seamlessly between characters, the remaining cast members all contribute enormously and equally to the atmosphere and depth of the production.
If you're looking to see something which is edgy and dynamic, rooted in old mythology but placed under a modern lens, then make sure you catch Electra at the Bunker Theatre, where it is running until the 24th March.