Theatre Review - Against

In Chris Shinn’s multi-layered play, chameleon actor Ben Wishaw plays Luke, a brilliant Silicon Valley billionaire who believes God wants him to “go where there’s violence” and effect change.

Luke meets a diverse group of Americans from the parents of a boy who has carried out a High-School massacre to a pair of drug-addicts. Shinn also covers an array of subjects including gun crime, political correctness, bullying and the exploitation of workers in a food-packing company.

Luke becomes a messianic figure with a genuine desire to help, who is loved and vilified in equal measure. It’s fairly obvious early on what his fate will be but Shinn raises some interesting questions along the way.

Running through the play is Luke’s on-off relationship with his assistant and confidante Sheila (Amanda Hale), who is clearly in love with him. In a remarkable performance, Wishaw perfectly conveys Luke’s infuriating mix of charm, smugness, confidence and indecision.

It’s all played out on ULTZ’s pared back set. Shinn’s play is clearly FOR love, AGAINST hate and this is highlighted by the large double bed that appears out of the stage’s belly every so often, and is finally utlilised by Luke and Sheila in one passionate scene.

It is a delight to see Wishaw supported by such a talented and diverse ensemble. Particularly memorable are the interactions between co-packers Tracey (Adelle Leonce) and Melvyn (Elliot Barnes-Worrell), creative writing student Anna (Emma D’Arcy) and her pompous professor (Kevin Harvey) and Naomi Wirthner in two roles.  Ian Rickson directs with his usual panache.

Almeida Theatre

Running until 30 September