Leaving Vietnam ★★★★ Park Theatre | Mar 14 - Apr 8, 2023


America may have left Vietnam, but it is arguable if the wound which that war left on the American psyche has ever healed. This monologue of a Vietnam veteran shows how the alienation created by that conflict leads in a direct line to the enormous political problems that bedevil the country today. The sense of manipulation and betrayal by political leaders and the ensuing dislocation caused by economic globalisation are the progenitors of the renewed populism and isolationism that characterise the current political climate. In his monologue, Richard Vergette captures this reality by focussing on the story of one decent, working class veteran who is traumatised by his war experience and bewildered by the world that he inherits. The main strength of the play is the individualisation and personalisation of the American political dilemma in the character of Jimmy, but the work also has an engaging dramatic arc of development that is both heartening and hopeful. Vergette gives a powerful performance that provides a touching insight into the proud, decent man who plays by the rules and keeps his feelings bottled up. If there is a quibble with Vergette's channeling of his character, it might be that he over projects. A more conversational tone might have engaged the audience more. Nevertheless, this is a fascinating insight into the soul of a tortured man and the side of America he represents. It humanises rather than demonises supporters of those ideologies that are becoming ever more widespread around the world. Leaving Vietnam is a moving and thought-provoking piece of theatre.

Rated: ★★★★

Reviewed by J.C.
Photo by Jane Hobson.

Want to save on tickets? See our Tips page.

When, Where, Getting there:

Most Popular

King of Pangea ★★ King's Head Theatre | Jun 7 - Jul 6, 2025

St. Martin in-the-fields: Lunchtime Concerts ★★★★ FREE

Our Cosmic Dust ★★★ Park Theatre | Jun 2 - Jul 5, 2025

Stereophonic ★★★★ Duke of York's Theatre | May 24 - Oct 11, 2025

Intimate Apparel ★★★★★ Donmar Warehouse | Jun 20 - Aug 9, 2025

Head First Acrobats – GODZ ★★★ Sadler's Wells Peacock Theatre | June 11 - 14, 2025

Edward Burra - Ithell Colquhoun ★★★★ Tate Britain | Jun 13 - Oct 19, 2025

Letters From Max ★★★★ Hampstead Theatre | May 23 - Jun 28, 2025

This Is My Family ★★★★ Southwark Playhouse, Elephant | May 23 - Jul 12, 2025

Giffords Circus: Laguna Bay ★★★★ Chiswick House & Gardens | June 5 - 22, 2025

The City Life Magazine | Reviews & Ratings