Thatcher-Rite Review
Written by Cathie for Theatre and Tonic.
Disclaimer: Tickets were gifted in return for an honest review. All views are my own.
General warnings; flashing lights, food on stage, political discussion
When most Brits think of the 80’s they will usually say neon lights, power suits, huge hair and Maggie Thatcher’s mark on politics. Thatcher- Rite focuses on the idea of Thatcher having a tea party to celebrate her arrival into the afterlife. This show is so ineffable it can be classed as multitude of experiences including a drag show, an interactive show, an immersive political debate and a clown show.
Jack Boal, creator and performer, is born and bred in Finchley London, where the artsdepot venue is based. This definitely adds a layer of connection and pathos to the discussions of Thatcher and her actions. The show starts with a roll from his childhood and he acts as Thatcher in drag, with a face powdered in a reminiscence of 80’s fine china dolls and the dancing skills to match this vintage 80’s vibe.
Unless you have been living under a rock for the last 50 years, most of the British public will have formed decided opinions about Thatcher, whether justified or not. This was explored quite a bit with 8 different members of the audience selected throughout to sit and have tea with ‘Thatcher’. The different political ideologies and viewpoints on Thatcher and current life were interesting and it was thought-provoking to see how different souls reacted to being on stage. This also lends the show a mercurial and unpredictable nature because it’s unknown how the audience will react to the different things Thatcher says and that of her enduring legacy.
One of the most interesting points is that Thatcher’s assertive personality and strength are referenced often in this show. As the old adage “right or wrong do something” states, this show explores the thought that Thatcher at least was a lightning rod of political discussion and a driving force for change, whether that change was considered positive or not. It also highlights how our current political choices are far more watered down in terms of leadership skills and since Thatcher, there has been no serious offer of a strong alternative since. This show also discusses the root causes of our housing crisis, the crisis in British identity post-Brexit, the mining strikes and more.
It is one of the most quintessentially British shows I’ve ever seen. It showcases political discussion over tea and biscuits and manages to nail the different elements of how we remember Thatcher extremely well. The message at heart is nuanced and well thought of. Some of the delivery can confuse this message, but that seems more deliberate as much of the show feels like the creator is attempting to sort through and understand his own feelings about both Thatcher and our modern political climate.
If you want a short and afternoon tea type sweet taste of theatre, spiced with politics, watching audience members squirm and featuring dances from infamous songs then I recommend this show for you.
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
