The Apologists, Omnibus Theatre - ★★★ - Until March 8, 2020


The Apologists gives us three presentations of the act of seeking to express regret and to receive pardon. The pieces look at the truth and hypocrisy in such gestures. In the first short monologue we meet a very unlikable Government Minister who becomes exasperated when her true self is exposed and she is forced to apologise for a crass racist remark. Difficulties being experienced by a UK Cabinet Minister currently in the media add a certain frisson to this section of the work. The second section concerns a writer whose review is blamed for a suicide. This monologue tends to ramble a little, but is certainly well acted. It is the third monologue that by far worked the best for us. Sienna re-lives her rape whilst working with an overseas aid agency; the futility of the ensuing apology she receives from the CEO is palpably appalling. It is impossible not to sympathise with this woman and others treated equally badly who are then simply ignored by 'the system'. While the important themes here may need to be reiterated, Gabrielle Scawthorn, as good an actress as she is, can not disguise the fact there is a certain repetitiousness in the writing. Jane Moriarty has directed the piece very simply, allowing the words to speak for themselves. All said, there is a terrific performance at the heart of this evening and for this, Scawthorn deserves much praise.

 Reviewed by D.S.J.
Photo by Steve Gregson.
 Our Score:  ☆☆☆ 

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 WHEN, WHERE, GETTING THERE:
Until March 8, 2020
Tue - Sat: 7:30 pm
Omnibus Theatre
Nearest tube: Clapham Common
https://www.omnibus-clapham.org/the-apologists/
Map & Location: 1 Clapham Common North Side, Clapham Town, London SW4 0QW, UK

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