Love & Information at The Royal Court Theatre

Love & Information is a new piece of writing for The Jerwood Theatre Downstairs in The Royal Court, from renowned playwright Caryl Churchill. It explores our processes in dealing with revelations, new information combined with feelings of love and affection, and the results and triggers of the two things we are never taught how to do. A very raw, instinctive piece of theatre from the off. 

Split into eight sections, only divided by a black screen and a projected number, the showcase style of scenes are presented in a white box with minimal set. Some scenes last a matter of seconds, some last several moments. The cast of 16 return sporadically as several different characters in various dialogues that provide a snapshot of humans involved in intimate conversations that challenge the psyche and the emotive responses. 

A touching scene played by Amanda Drew and John Heffernan, are two office workers and she is explaining how she is trying to increase her memory by making lists. In the process, her mind surprises her with a touching simple memory of her father when she was four and the intricate details of a brief, non-complicated moment. It is touching to appreciate the simple things your mind remembers without you having to tell it to. Intriguing and delicately played by Drew.

Every character created is relatable and easily understood. Laura Elphinstone has a quirky, characterful look that captures you instantly and plays bluntly and honestly along with Susan Engel, who makes a comical stead as an elderly lady struggling to sleep in a bed next to her dozing husband, so decides instead of reading or a drinking glass of warm milk, to get up and go on Facebook…

The creative collaboration between James Macdonald (director), Miriam Buether (set designer) and Peter Mumford (lighting designer) complement and astonish. The rawness of delivery and focus of the ensemble is warming and easy to watch. Could do with a touch more pace, but nothing is thrust upon you. You’re left with a pensiveness and appreciation for the simple ability to feel and understand.

Sarah Milton

Love and Information is at the Royal Court from 6^th September until 13^th October 2012. For further information or to book visit the theatre’s website here.

Watch the trailer for Love & Information here: