The stunning Barn Theatre in Cirencester, the largest town in the Cotswolds, is the perfect venue to stage the world premiere of Cat Goscovitch’s new political drama, A Russian Doll.

Based on a true story, this one-woman play focuses entirely on Masha, a former English Literature student at St Petersburg University with a passion for Emily Bronte, who gets sucked into a life of deception and deceit working for Russia’s disinformation campaign during the 2016 EU referendum - slightly different to the teacher she had hoped to become! Masha’s new world involves her creating a large number of British personas on social media in order to talk to (and hopefully influence) others in order to sway the result of the Brexit vote.

This co-production between the Barn and Arcola Theatres stars Rachel Redford as protagonist Masha, who gives a captivating and gripping performance from start to finish. There is nothing more exposing than a 70-minute monologue but she delivers the text with conviction and intent. Whilst Masha initially despises what she is being asked to do, she eventually begins to appreciate the job that has gotten her out of a state of poverty. She is somewhat likeable despite the inhumane tasks that she undertakes.

Liz De Costa’s design represents an office, complete with computers, desks and an office chair in a cube-like structure, completely transparent with nowhere to hide - seemingly like your data! There are also two screens at the back of the stage used as a setting tool and to relay important information by AV Designer Benjamin Collins, along with Sam Rowcliffe-Tanner’s lighting which is effective and moves seamlessly with Masha.

Nicholas Kent’s direction ensures the pace of the piece is consistent throughout. With a static set, the blocking is used to reflect change of scene and Redford moves around the space accordingly in order to do this. Although the scope is quite limited, it keeps your attention for the duration and the mix of Masha addressing the audience directly, as well as recounting conversations with others, works well.

Goscovitch’s play is intelligent and Redford’s delivery of her text is both chilling and fascinating. It certainly gives you food for thought!

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: Jenny Ell

A Russian Doll plays at the Barn Theatre until 12 June before visiting the Arcola Theatre in London.

A big thank you to the Barn Theatre for welcoming us back and making the experience as safe and easy as possible.