Updating Thomas Heywood’s 1603 domestic tragedy to 1919, director Katie Mitchell’s visually mesmerising production (the text substantially cut) plays out main and sub plot side by side on a vertically split stage.
Scurrying servants signify the contrasting changes in fortune of adulterous Anne (banished for her infidelity) and virtuous Susan (pimped by her debt-ridden brother) in a stylised interpretation which, with the exception of Gawn Grainger’s tale-telling retainer, places more emphasis on movement than dialogue.
The result is intriguing but sacrifices emotional involvement for artistic concept.
Lyttelton at the National, South Bank, SE1 9PX (020 7452 3000) Tube: Waterloo nationaltheatre.org.uk Until September 11 (£12 - £30.00)
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