Lie Low
Lie Low by Ciara Elizabeth Smyth, delivers a potent theatrical experience with only two performers on stage, supported by the voice-over of the Doctor. This production was remarkably well executed, with moments that truly captured the audience's attention and showcased the performers' talents.
The play centres around Tomas Finnegan and Charlotte McCurry, portraying siblings Naoise and Faye. Their performances were marked with genuine moments of awkwardness and the discomfort of pushing social boundaries. However, as the tension escalated, the sincerity of these interactions began to dissipate, making it challenging to maintain emotional engagement.
The trauma conveyed throughout the play was palpable, and the 70-minute runtime was a merciful decision, as a longer duration might have been overwhelming. Lie Low tackles a wealth of heavy topics, including alcoholism, potential rape, and incest. These serious themes are juxtaposed with surreal and somewhat absurd dance sequences, featuring Finnegan in a latex duck mask, adding a bizarre and intriguing dimension to production.
This is an intense play, reminiscent of the kind often directed by university lecturers aiming to challenge and push the boundaries of their fresh-faced students. The inclusion of nudity and unconventional elements, such as stepping on Rice Krispies, underscores its avant-garde nature.
Lie Low is a thought-provoking piece, one that everyone should experience once. It's a stark contrast to more light-hearted theatre, offering a profound and, at times, unsettling journey into the complexities of human trauma and relationships.
This show was reviewed on the 30th May 2024 at the Royal Court Theatre, London where it runs until the 8th June 2024. Tickets available here: Lie Low - Royal Court (royalcourttheatre.com)
Review written by Valentine Gale-Sides
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Photo credit: Ciaran Bagnall
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