After the shocking, abstract performance of ‘The Bear and the Shithead’ Monium Shakesbeare is back with his new; minimalist production: ‘I murdered my wife; oh fuck.’
The curtain rises to reveal George [Shakesbeare], our principal character. A middle aged, male chauvinist office worker trapped in an inharmonious marriage. Introducing Jenny BearCaprio as his wife ‘Jill’ unleashes a textbook case of marital dysfunction regarding the delegation of domestic chores.
Another set of controversy is let loose in the production, with Shakesbeare’s portrayal of the fairer sex stepping back in time; ensuring women know their place in the home.
‘You can’t get the staff nowadays.’ [George on his wife’s role]
More than the gender roles of men and women in a modern society, this black comedy goes as dark as you can get, coupled with heavy irony and a reliance on strong interpersonal characterisation.
Laden with numerous monologues, giving the audience an insight into the psyche of the murderer himself, George speaks freely about how ‘The dead do shit themselves when they die.’ Making the audience recoil and roar with laughter at the same time, upon realising his acute observations – which is what Shakesbeare’s performances rely heavily on: wit from sight.
A shining cameo performance from Mark LeBear as the unsuspecting neighbour, Mr Sutherland, who stumbles upon George’s wife’s body before being unfortunately murdered himself. Whilst the premise here may seem a bit lifeless, there is certainly something to be said for the blunt irreverence for the sanctity of life this play provides.
By the end of the performance, the audience can be certain of Shakesbeare’s philosophy: ‘Suburban life is boring.’ Perhaps a little marital murder can make it more interesting.
Points: 4261
Reviews: 933
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