Disappointingly Generalised Play on Norwegian Tragedy

In a poignant reflection on the tragic events of Norway's 2011 far-right terrorist attack, which claimed 77 lives, Edoardo Erba's play 'Utøya' makes its UK premiere under the direction of Sarah Stacey. Unlike previous cinematic portrayals, such as Paul Greengrass’s '22 July', Erba opts for a more abstract approach, focusing on the broader implications of the ideology behind the violence rather than the perpetrator himself. The play invites audiences to consider the societal roots of hatred, emphasizing the need to confront the ideologies that fuel such acts. Set on a minimalist stage with just a table and two chairs, the narrative unfolds through the performances of Kate Reid and Marco Young, who portray multiple pairs of characters. These include anxious parents awaiting news of their daughter at a summer camp, police officers grappling with their orders, and siblings discussing their peculiar neighbor. While the dialogue initially captures the mundane aspects of life, the introduction of melodramatic elements detracts from the overall impact, leading to a disjointed experience. Critics note that the characters lack distinctiveness, with their interactions often blending into one another. This uniformity raises questions about the representation of bigotry, as the play suggests that the same prejudices manifest across different societal roles. However, the absence of nuance in character development leaves the audience yearning for a deeper exploration of the themes presented. Ultimately, 'Utøya' serves as a stark reminder of the chasm between hope and hate, symbolized by a jagged crack in the stage's table, yet it struggles to deliver a compelling theatrical experience.