UK Theatre Network

The word ‘Apologia’ we are told by the sharp, acerbic character Kritsen, is a defence, a justification of a belief; it is also the title of her memoir, which incidentally bears no mention of her two sons. During a birthday celebration the once fiery reactionary finds herself under the line of fire from her own children, forced to defend the choices of her past.

In his second play (after the huge success of ‘The Pride’ at the Royal Court six months previously) Alexi Kaye Campbell returns with a sensitive portrayal of a family’s past in his new play, ‘Apologia’.

Set around art historian Kirsten’s stylish bohemian kitchen, the domesticity of a family celebration is the perfect setting to scrutinize her past. The piece is full of humour, which emerges through Campbell’s structured contrasts; one son is a high powered corporate banker, the other a sensitive, out of work actor; one girlfriend a ‘vacuous’ soap actress, the other a wholesome, born-again American Christian.

In fact it is the delightful contrast in energy and pace between earnest American Trudi, and cynical cut-throat Kirsten that provides much of the comedy and impact to the play. As actresses, Sarah Goldberg and Paola Dionisotti play against each other brilliantly, creating strong and commanding polarised characters. 

Despite a slight dip in energy initially after the interval, it is the second half that fully explores the issue of parenthood. Campbell begins to unravel the authority and grace of a woman so highly revered in the first half. Described by her son Simon as more of an ‘absence’ than a parent, through his experiences Campbell captures the power of memory, and its lasting damage on family relationships.

Sensitively directed by Josi Rourke, ‘Apologia’ explores the sacrifices made by a parent, and the fall of a heroic and successful woman, whom Dionisotti embodies perfectly with controlled passion and dignity.

The Bush Theatre

Wed 17 June – Sat 18 July

Book Online www.bushtheatre.co.uk