Monday Monologues: Beds at Bush Theatre online

Bush Theatre has launched a project named #MondayMonologues as a way to stay connected with audiences and the community. A short piece is released online weekly, with each video made by a different performer. All the works were written and recorded during the lockdown and each explores a different topic, although most have to do with relationship challenges.

This week’s monologue is Shaun Dunne’s Beds, a reflection on the aftermath of a breakup that draws a parallel between romantic partnerships and mattresses: they “should be hard”, the protagonist states. Shot at home and directed by Lynette Linton, the five-minute monologue sees the speaker clutching onto the threads that still connect him to his ex. The bed they bought together, which is now solely his ex’s, is at the centre of the protagonist’s reflections.

There’s reminiscing and there’s wondering about how much has changed in his ex’s life. Descriptions of textures and sensations relating to physical objects abound and give an extra layer to the narration. The piece would be a good prelude to a richer story, but in its current format there is nothing powerful or imaginative enough to give it a strong impact. The unchanging cadence also prevents its dramatic pace from taking off.

The easily accessible, short dramas of the #MondayMonologues series are a great way for drama fans to get their fix of new work and are definitely worth exploring as a way to support the community-oriented Bush Theatre. The monologues will be streamed each Monday until August 2020.

Mersa Auda

Beds is available to view on the Bush Theatre’s YouTube channel from 22^nd June until 22^nd June 2021. For further information or to book visit the theatre’s website here.