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An absurdist well-written satire with a terrific cast and an original use of set and lighting design.Summary
Rating
Good
A Woman Walks into a Bank crafted and directed by Roxy Cook, opens with a vibrant soundscape of Russian pop and techno tunes, accompanied by a visually striking set adorned with Russian-patterned rugs and upholstered chairs.
We are introduced to our main characters: A/ An Old Woman (played by the talented Giulia Innocenti) and B/A Young Man (played by the charismatic Sam Newton). Their verbal exchange, akin to a captivating game of linguistic ping pong, sets the stage for the unfolding narrative. The Old Woman, persuaded into a high-interest loan she promptly forgets, becomes the focal point as the play explores social apathy in a modern Russia in crisis.
The retelling of the story portrays the different points of view of these two characters through wordplay and clever transitions, aided by some great light design by Joe Price and an atmospheric score by Hugh Sheehan. A special mention must go to the set design by David Allen that serves as a ‘Matryoshka’ Russian doll, unveiling secrets as the story unfolds.
The introduction of a third character, C/A Debt Collector (Keith Dunphy), and the surprising witness Sally the Cat, add humour, brought to life by all three performers. However, while the writing style provides dynamism and wordplay – evoking Caryl Churchill’s Love and Information– the role of the Debt Collector feels unnecessary. Where the first half of the play establishes the Old Woman and the Young Man as vivid, cleverly written, larger-than-life characters, this figure serves more as a device to drive the story than a compelling character.
The introduction of a chaotic whirlwind in the second half, involving the mischievous Vanessa (the evil cat next door) adds a layer of light-heartedness to the complicated and uncomfortable themes. The decision to use animal characters cleverly adds complicity to the story, leaving the audience wondering about the fate of the old lady, the cat, and the rest of the characters.
Notably, the decision to forego Russian accents, while an artistic choice, raises curiosity about the intention behind it. Incorporating Russian actors could have added authenticity and diversity, highlighting a missed opportunity for international representation on the London stage.
Innocenti and (especially) Newton shine, with the latter showcasing a magnificent tour de force, navigating a spectrum of emotions with a convincing and nuanced portrayal of the Young Man. But beyond this the play lacks emotional depth and fails to be gut-wrenching.
A Woman Walks into a Bank is a well-rounded production, but it could achieve a more resonant payoff for the audience by refining narrative tension. Addressing the role of the Debt Collector and exploring the emotional depth of the story might elevate the overall impact of the play.
Written and Directed by: Roxy Cook
Set and Costume Design by: David Allen
Lighting Design by: Joe Price
Sound Design and Composed by: Hugh Sheehan
Associate and Movement Director: Sam Hooper
A Woman Walks Into a Bank runs at Theatre 503 until 9 December. Further information and bookings can be found here.
