The week in theatre: Speed; Shanghai Dolls review
Briefly

The article reflects on the evolution of the author's perspective on stage design, notably influenced by a past experience on a judging panel. It highlights the minimalist yet impactful design of Tomas Palmer in the play Speed, which serves merely as a backdrop for the action. The narrative unfolds around three British South Asian characters at a speed awareness course, led by a troubled young man. Directed by Milli Bhatia, the production's rapid dialogue and layered themes illustrate a striking transformation from comedy to a deeper, more shocking narrative.
"The best design does not have evident designs on its audience... Tomas Palmer's design scarcely seems arranged: it is simply a place in which things happen."
"Milli Bhatia's productions are fuelled by the rapidity with which conversation is spat out and scenes scud into each other... a dark secret, which pounces on him in mysterious blackouts, moves the plot from light comedy to shock."
Read at www.theguardian.com
[
|
]