If you have a weak constitution and are easily offended then sit this one out.
But if you have an idea of Steven Berkoff’s visceral and uncompromising language then you will be able to stomach this adults-only performance.
This re-telling of Sophocles’ Oedipus story is set in a 1970s London consumed by plague – a rat-infested city stewing in a moral cesspit. Events parallel the Greek original but the language is riddled with references to IRA bombings, racism, degeneracy and ignorance. In one brilliant line, England is called “This septic isle”, turning Shakespeare’s turn of phrase on its head.
The monologues are uttered with control by a talented cast. Nik Balfe plays the part of the protagonist with confidence, Andy Bell as Dad spits out his lines with venom, and Liz Stapleton switches into the misandrist sphinx in style.
All the characters, however, are at the mercy of the outstanding script, which frequently plunges them into moments of exceptional poetry.
And despite all the horrors there is considerable humour, albeit often of the dark variety.
The stark intimacy of the set adds to the drama so there is no escaping Berkoff’s acid tongue. Just leave your sensitivities and your children at home.
Four stars
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