Review: Chekhov’s Dildo, Hope Theatre

Short and sharp, Chekhov’s Dildo makes an impression at the Hope Theatre

“You made this bed, why don’t we sleep in it”

There may be a seagull suspended from the ceiling but it is the dramatic principle of Chekhov’s gun that casts a shadow here. Or rather, it’s an interpretation of it as you may have gathered from the title. Rex Fisher’s Chekhov’s Dildo aims for a fresh, modern take on a sex comedy, liberally sprinkled with Chekhovian injokes and perhaps fittingly for this day and age, a twist into Mamettian territory.

In the cluttered confines of a university bedroom, Rufus and Annabel have just indulged in a bout of breakup sex. But as they navigate the intricacies of their post-coital chat as exes, surprises are to be found under the bed, on the dressing table and more besides. For as he was also her tutor as well as her lover, the power dynamics in their relationship are twisted and are threatening to uncoil in unexpected ways. 

From its mid-coitus opening line to its hilarious genital euphemisms, Fisher’s script is wittily observed, particularly as it takes down academic arrogance and Merle Wheldon-Posner’s direction is smartly dynamic even in its single location. And without wishing to give too much away, as the play embraces vengeful leanings, it offers a thought-provoking take on revenge and retribution and where they are justified. 

With this limited run-time, there’s potential to further explore this tangled web, especially where Annabel’s motives are concerned even in the face of Rufus’ continually manipulative behaviour. Olivia Barrowclough and Ruaridh Aldington pair well in exploring this imbalance, though at times, he feels a little young to be someone so close to tenure. As for that dildo, rest assured that Chekhov’s ‘gun’ gets used one way or the other…  

Running time: 50 minutes (without interval)
Photos: Tia-Ama Amihyia
Chekhov’s Dildo is booking at Hope Theatre until 18th February

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