Nuria Haering takes a look at what we can expect from this fringe adaptation of a classic play by Neil Labute
From 11th February, Cougar Productions stages Neil LaBute’s psychologically intense relationship drama The Shape of Things at Cockpit Theatre. Actress-turned-director Catherine Robey has chosen the American playwright’s 2001 piece for her London debut because of its “gritty, real and visceral” language and the way it asks us to explore our own morals and attitudes to relationships.
The play follows quiet, unassuming Adam as he begins to change; seemingly for the better, and then for the worse – as a result of dating the spunky, abrasive art student Evelyn. This controversial character – brilliantly depicted by Rachel Weisz in LaBute’s own premiere at the Almeida Theatre and subsequent 2003 film adaptation – is central to the questions that arise.
Robey aims to portray Evelyn three-dimensionally so the unexpected denouement further challenges the audience, rather than merely shocking them. It therefore begs the question, is Evelyn a manipulative bitch or a complex and courageous artist?
Robey wants the audience to come away “contemplating how far they would go in pursuit of their beliefs or desires.” Intrigued yet?
The Shape of Things runs at The Cockpit Theare from 11.02.10 to 13.02.10
Photo Credit: DAEllis
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