Review: CLYBOURNE PARK, Crescent Theatre Birmingham
Written by Bruce Norris and inspired by the Lorraine Hansbury drama A Raisin in the Sun, Clybourne Park has previously experienced controversy from African American communities for negative stereotyping but it is important to remember that whilst attitudes have largely changed, identifying how far we have come is both historically relevant and in need of suitable acknowledgment.
It could be described as a dark comedy with satirical themes of race, gender and gentrification. It’s uncomfortably funny, even more so when you realise how ridiculously society used to think of each other because of its differences. The main issue being skin colour and our limited acceptance of this difference in the 1950’s and still within the last decade.
How can something so simple as speaking to each other respectfully, spiral downwards so very quickly and result in causing so much hurt and uncomfortableness? Well, Clybourne Park shows that it can!
This production is perfectly directed by Stewart Snape and has incredible, faultless set design by Colin Simmonds, who easily transports us to the living room of 406 Clybourne Park in both 1959 and 2009.
Whilst we can honestly say that the cast are fantastic all round, a special mention must go to James David Knapp as Karl/Steve, who makes the audience feel uncomfortable very easily with his outrageously racist ideas in the 1950’s and then has them laughing out loud as he digs an ever deepening hole for himself in the modern scenes.
Also, Colin Simmonds as Russ/Dan goes from angry and grieving Father to comical contractor seamlessly, whilst Grace Cheatle as Betsy/Lindsey is convincingly naïve and later viciously opinionated with a commanding and comfortable stage presence making her easy to watch.
This is a great production with controversial topics making relevant points both dramatically and current.
We highly recommend that you do not miss this one!
Reviewed by: Rachel Louise Martin
Clybourne Park plays at the Crescent Theatre, Birmingham until 16 July, with tickets available here.