Trois Ruptures at the Chelsea

Chronicling the break-up of three very different relationships, award-winning French playwright Remi De Vos’ dark comedy is the hottest French ticket in London this month.

Debuting as part of En Scene! Trois Ruptures stars Edith Vernes and Christopher Campbell, as three very different couples navigate the messy water of break-ups. It explores everything from the fluidity of sexuality to the impact a demanding child can have on even the strongest of relationships. The play is funny, though in parts it shouldn’t be, and poignant in others – it’s that wonderful blend that makes Trois Ruptures such a memorable and realistic experience.

Directed by Marianne Badrichani and translated by Campbell himself, the play is entirely in French with English subtitles projected above the stage (definitely an interesting experience) and consists of three short sketches. The set design is simple, consisting mostly of just a table and chairs and yet, simply by their positioning and the few extra props, we are told almost everything we need to know about the forthcoming scene. The scenes themselves are divided by at first seemingly random video clips that foreshadow the major source of conflicts for each split nicely.

The theatre itself is small, adding to the intimate and almost voyeuristic nature of the play. The dialogue is fast paced and witty, and each character is fully formed, just as each break-up is wildly different. It’s intriguing to watch the two characters in each scene react so differently to the same event. Some of the splits are explosive, others more subdued, quietly fizzling out before us.

Though the subtitles at times lag, meaning the next few lines whizz by, Trois Ruptures is a thoroughly enjoyable experience. It’s an intriguing look into the most private and personal, and yet relatable, event in any person’s life and the masterful way in which it’s performed makes it wholly unique.

Natasha Furlong

Trois Ruptures is on at the Chelsea Theatre until 24^th January 2015, for more information or to book visit here.