Pack Of Lies: Theatre Review

2009-03-17 10:19:42

Pack Of Lies, written by award-winning writer Hugh Whitemore, is an astonishing play. Factually based, Whitemore invites the audience to become the neighbours of suspected Soviet spies and face the chilling reality of life governed by fear. This mystery of a play is ready to be solved at Nottingham's Theatre Royal right now.
    
The sixties is a decade that's noted for its experimentation and freedom but what is rarely explored is the invasion of communist spies. People who walk by you in the street, people who visit you for coffee or even people you love. This frightening thought is the central theme of Pack Of Lies; fear and deception. It is portrayed perfectly through suspenseful dialogue, ominous music and haunting lighting.
    
Piece together the mystery jigsaw
    
The structure of the play is like a documentary, which is very effective as the play naturally seduces the audience in to wondering 'can this really be true?' The characters’ side monologues help create depth and piece together the mystery jigsaw.
    
Some parts of the play were melodramatic, such as Barbara's reactions, however this opinion is formed through lack of emphasis and sympathy. This may not be the aim of the director Christopher Morahan but for the final scene to work, certain parts should be less dramatic and more realistic.
    
Attention to detail was superb
    
The acting skills varied but credit must be given to Lorna Luft who played Helen; she performed her character flawlessly throughout the show. Plus Jenny Seagrove who played Barbara; her attention to detail was superb and even without the use of dialogue she created tension on stage.
    
Although the events explored in this play are from the sixties, it certainly does spark the question of 'has anything really changed?'. Britain is notably one of the most paranoid nations and is practically a society of surveillance. George Orwell's Novel 1984 springs to mind.
    
Thoroughly enjoyable; not to be missed!
    
Pack Of Lies will undoubtedly remain a timeless classic because of its ability to reflect modern society, which is not necessarily a good thing sometimes. However the show is thoroughly enjoyable and for that reason it should definitely not be missed!
    
Review: Fiona Stanley
    
Pack Of Lies is showing at Nottingham's Theatre Royal until 21st March 2009
    

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