Trojan Barbie – Review
Christine Evans’ war torn Troy is a far cry from the pink utopia of Barbieland. Based on Euripides’ tragedy The Trojan Women, the play explores the impact of war on the women left behind. Set simultaneously in the past and present, Trojan Barbie is a culture clash of epic proportions.
There is no escaping the emotional turmoil of the ill-fated characters in the intimate setting of The Studio at The Questors Theatre, Ealing. Seated at the same level as the actors, who weave in and out of the space at various points, you feel immediately involved in the production. The dark space easily transforms from ancient to modern Troy and back again, with the minimal set serving as the backdrop for a Turkish cafe, a doll repairer’s studio and a refugee camp, amongst other things. Lighting, sound and costume serve as hints to which era each scene belongs to.
The play begins and ends with Lotte, an eccentric doll repairer embarking on a singles’ tour of modern-day Troy, portrayed brilliantly by Mia Biagio. Instead of meeting her soulmate amid the ancient ruins, Lotte finds herself transported to the aftermath of the Trojan War. She meets a group of anguished women trapped in a prison camp, not by ancient soldiers but by Americans in modern uniforms more reminiscent of recent conflict in the Middle East. Here, the full extent of the warped timeline is revealed.
Richard Gallagher directs the unpredictable narrative with confidence, producing a slick production with a capable cast who effortlessly handle the numerous era and costume changes. The audience will recognise Hecuba, Cassandra, Polyxena (known here as Polly X), Andromache and Helen from Euripides, though some are modernised in unexpected ways. The addition of Esme and Clea, a double act played by Hyssop Benson and Isabella Cottrell Kirby respectively, add some much needed comic relief beside Nate Clarke’s powerful performance as the grieving Hecuba. Hannah Rosamund as the glamorous, movie star-esque Helen should also be noted.
As long as there are wars, Trojan Barbie will remain relevant and poignant. The Questors Theatre stages a thought-provoking production of the play that is sure to spark discussion and debate.
Trojan Barbie is at The Questors Theatre, Ealing, until 29 March. Lily Lowe is an Editorial Intern at Aspects of History.
