Herding Cats

Herding Cats
By Lucinda Coxon. Director: Suzanne Chaundy. Red Stitch Actors Theatre. June 5 - July 7, 2013.

This is a disturbing play about three people linked to each other but failing to connect, at least in a healthy way. Set in the intimate Red Stitch theatre, and with the distant sound of a jackhammer filtering in from roadworks outside (on the night this reviewer attended), Herding Cats presents a bleak picture of modern England. Perhaps it's a timely one, given that country's economic strife, and the recent shocking outburst of violence against a soldier on the street. There is a sense of chaos, despair and desperation in parts of England's population. You can read it in the news, and also get a slice of it from this claustrophobic play.

The story begins with a young, hip professional woman, Justine (Ngaire Dawn Fair) who comes home from work, full of frustration over the behaviour of a male work colleague who may or may not be her boss. She talks, and talks and talks, to flatmate Michael (Paul Ashcroft) about this man's laziness, stupidity, lack of talent. She makes some valid points but there is something wrong with her interactions with Michael. He reacts and responds, but only to keep her talking some more. Neither party seems to be listening to each other.

An even stranger partnership is introduced, as we learn about Michael's day job. He's a professional listener who runs a phone sex service with a list of male clients, including Saddo, played with chilling precision by long-time Red Stitch performer, Dion Mills. The fantasy that unfolds between Michael and Saddo is excruciating to listen to. No one wants to hear it. There is no filter on it, and audience members will want to clap their hands to their ears at certain moments. Despite, the very unpleasant subject matter, it's interesting to try to figure out who is in control, and who is more dependant in this relationship.

The dependancy between the three characters is highlighted in a particularly effective Christmas-themed scene, complete with fairy lights, an imposing tree and cheesy music. It's the only scene where the three are brought together and it shows how distorted their relationships have become.

There are some odd moments in this production, particularly with the music used to break up scenes. A creepy phone conversation with Saddo is followed by the Divinyls 'I Touch Myself'. This seems to make light of the scene, as if we're meant to find it funny. The actors do a great job at creating atmosphere. The choice of music is not serving them well.

Despite strong acting and a sharp script, this will be an uncomfortable night out in the theatre for a lot of people. If anything, it will make you grateful for every meaningful conversation, and genuine connection, you can have with another person.

Sara Bannister

Images: Ngaire Dawn Fair & Paul Ashcroft and Paul Ashcroft & Dion Mills - Photographer: jodie Hutchinson.

Subscribe to our E-Newsletter, buy our latest print edition or find a Performing Arts book at Book Nook.