47th - Theatre Review -
47th - Theatre Review -
Since Donald Trump left the White House, I find it surprising that there has not been a slew of theatre shows wanting to give their take on the Trump presidency. Maybe, some writers thought about taking on the challenge, but where do you begin? Lesser writers may have folded under the pressure, however, Mike Bartlett a master of writing for stage and screen managed to come up with a winning formula. When I initially found out about this show and heard about the cast and creative team who would bring this creation to life. I was chomping at the bit to see '47th' because I knew it would be special.
Instead of looking back, Bartlett has thrust us into the future. How far into the future? 2024, the year of the next presidential election. Throughout '47th' Bartlett does not pull any punches, the dialogue is full of zingers that make the audience squirm in their seats. Bartlett's dialogue is lyrical, Shakespearean at times, it drives the story forward.
The show opens in early 2024, Biden is running for a second term in office, and Ted Cruz is the favourite to be the Republican nominee. Trump has not announced his candidacy yet; of course, this is a trap, Trump is waiting for an opportunity to present itself, then he pounces.
Rupert Goold's staging is electric, there are minimal props in the show, this allows the acting to take centre stage, the props that are used, only heighten the high drama, we constantly feel the power shifting from scene to scene, this amplifies the anarchy and sense of helplessness which builds throughout the show. Bartlett leaves us with a bleak image of the United States of America.
Bertie Carvel is mesmerising as Trump, I was transfixed every time he was on stage, Carvel revealed many of Trump's layers, his playfulness, his sinister streak, and his ability to manipulate people, including those closest to him. Tamara Tunie wonderfully played Kamala Harris, she was the perfect foil to Bertie Carvel's - Trump. Tunie's 'Kamala' retorts swiftly to the witty lines and quirky one-liners of Carvel's 'Trump'.
If you are looking for a show that takes on American politics in a bold, daring, and refreshing way, then this is the show for you.
I watched '47th' on its last day at the Old Vic theatre. I predict this show will get a West End and Broadway run, I also believe this show will be adapted for streaming. Why do I think this? Trump has international appeal, and streaming services will want to capitalise on this. In the meantime why not purchase a copy of '47th' by clicking the link below.
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