Aftermath

In February 2010 The Old Vic leased a series of tunnels in which they created a performance space intended for new and innovative pieces of art: The Old Vic Tunnels. The ninety minute play Aftermath (which premiered at New York Theatre Workshop in September 2009) almost seems as if it was written with this location in mind and as a result the production is nothing short of chillingly superb.

Aftermath tells six stories of Iraqi refugees, forced from their country into Jordan by the effects of the American invasion. Glued together by the charismatic translator, Shahid, each story is a different tragedy that exposes the devastation that innocent citizens were exposed to as a result of the war.

Ninety-five percent of the dialogue is taken from actual interviews that Jessica Blank and Erik Jensen had with Iraqi refugees, making the plight of the characters harrowingly compelling and hard hitting. But don’t think that this is just another anti-Bush demonstration; Aftermath uses humour and backgrounds to highlight the reality of the situation. Whether it’s the materialistic dermatologist forced to leave his luxurious lifestyle behind, or the respected Imam, humiliated by American interrogation, each character is very genuine and their tales very real.

What’s so striking about this production is the way in which it unfolds. The audience isn’t subjected to a long list of statistics, but instead is treated to engaging tales. There are colourful descriptions of Iraqi culture, charming anecdotes and beautiful relationships that are unyielding even in the presence of war. A married couple reminisce of the feasts they would shower upon their neighbours and two artists discuss their passion for Shakespeare.

However, this jovial banter is laced with a morbid sub-text that is leaked out before arriving at a powerful climax: the couple explain how they were forced to leave Iraq by the militia, a pharmacist tells of his friend being brutally murdered by the American forces and, as a passing train shakes the set in The Old Vic Tunnels, a widow describes the bombing that killed her husband and unborn child.

Throughout all of this, every member of the audience is thoroughly engaged; laughing; wincing; groaning in anguish along with the cast before being ground to a sudden halt.

Aftermath is bold, challenging and completely unexpected. If you want light hearted relief then stay well clear, but as far as thought provoking, eye opening theatre goes, this is about as good as it gets.

Aftermath is playing in the Old Vic Tunnels until 17th July 2010. Book via The Old Vic website.