Bad Jews came to the Theatre Royal stage on Monday night, the audience was a wide range of ages, although not sold out it was well attended.
The set was static of a tiny studio flat, with an interesting start of a lad playing PlayStation in his pants. You quickly learn that it is set in New York along the Hudson River; and also the background of the family, one side rich and one side believing themselves to be poor, brought together by the death of the grandfather.
The main character Daphna hogs the script until she and Jonah (lad in pants) are joined by Liam and Melody. Daphna and Liam are very similar, although Daphna comes across as slightly crazy and much more religious with her opinions of what makes a bad Jew, both are equally as intense. Playwright Joshua Harmon believes that Daphna (brought to life on stage by Aisla Joy) may come across less likeable due to the fact she is a woman, whereas I found her quite endearing just dealing with her grief in her own way. Her opinion of tattoos was absolutely hilarious.
However for me it was Liam, played by Ilan Goodman, that stole the show with his epic ranting breakdown, it was comic genius and received a well deserved around of applause. It was an excellent portrayal of how families can get after a loved one passes and arguments over possessions ensue. Despite some arguably controversial comments the end is respectful and poignant.
Somehow two older gentlemen in the audience managed to fall asleep despite the loud shouting on stage and louder laughter in the audience, although I do believe their snoozing is a reflection on them and not on the play itself!
It reminded me of Lena Dunham’s much loved over the top drama Girls. Definitely go see this if you are a fan of that show. It’s run at Theatre Royal continues until Saturday with tickets available from www.trch.co.uk
Review by Josie Opal
