We didn’t know much about The Duchess (of Malfi) before going to check it out at the Trafalgar Theatre, other than this production, written and directed by Zinnie Harris, is an update of John Webster’s renowned Jacobean revenge tragedy from the early 17th century. This version is set in a more modern time – it’s not too clear exactly when, but a fairly recent past.
It all starts reasonably promisingly – sure, there might be a little too much exposition, with characters setting out who they are and what their motivations may be, and the pacing is a little sluggish in places, but the first act of The Duchess (of Malfi) tells a fairly interesting story, occasionally with some surprisingly humorous moments. There’s some impressive acting to be found too, particularly in Jodie Whittaker as the titular Duchess, who is strong throughout.
It all starts to go a bit downhill in act two, sadly, or at least this production’s flaws come to the fore. While stylistically it’s a little muddled before the interval, afterwards it really takes a turn – far too many different ideas are thrown into the mix.
It’s brutal, it’s loud, it’s a complete assault on the senses – TV projection is used, characters sing through microphones, we have a guitarist (we’re not sure why)… there’s way too much happening that it becomes almost overwhelming. There’s some serious subject matter unfolding too, although we didn’t find ourselves moved emotionally, as we just hadn’t become invested in these characters over the course of the play.
It’s a bit of a shame really as there are certainly some redeeming features here. There’s plenty of solid acting to be found, and there are a handful enjoyable scenes throughout the play, but it’s very much a mixed bag with far too many different ideas thrown into the mix. A missed opportunity.
GAY TIMES gives The Duchess (of Malfi) – 3/5
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