Preview: Haunted at Richmond Theatre

Preview: Haunted at Richmond Theatre

02 March, 2010
by: Amanda Gegg

Brenda Blethyn, veteran of stage and screen graces Richmond Theatre next week in Haunted. Amanda Gegg takes a look at what to expect from this contemporary Irish story of desire and regret.


Haunted is a tale of obsession portrayed through the modern day marvel that is Irish drama. Written by Edna O'Brien in 2010, it's a modern play intertwined with Irish authenticity. O'Brien is famous for her insight into her native Irish roots and this play in particular reflects the physical and emotional trials that people in Ireland have had to face.

Playing at Richmond Theatre from March 8th, Haunted tells the tale of a couple whose lives are profoundly affected by a young girl who shows up at their house. The lovable British actress Brenda Blethyn takes centre stage as the wife of a man who becomes obsessed with the idea of trying to get this young girl to return to their home.

Nial Buggy plays Blethyn's husband whose apparent mid-life crisis triggers a sadness in each of the characters. The Irish cultural themes of desire and regret are ever-present through O'Brien's work, so there's a degree of interpretation required. It's not entirely clear whether the whole play is a real or enhanced version of a man's possible loss and regret for not having had any children.

Through Haunted, Edna O'Brien treats her audience to a heady dash of old Irish magic and folklore skilfully woven into the plot. She has cleverly depicted many people's emotional sensibilities through her surreal approach to Irish theatre and you'll be left feeling inspired yet reflective.


Haunted will be showing at Richmond Theatre from 8th-13th March.

 

Photo Credit: Jonathan Keenan

 

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