Life with a little "L" | Review

Updated: Aug 3

The other day, I reviewed this production at Riverside Studios based on Charles Bukowski's life and works and I have to say it was excellent, though not what I expected. Through his raw, unfiltered portrayal of urban life, Charles Bukowski profoundly influenced modern literature. Gritty realism and dark humour are hallmarks of his works, which resonated with disillusioned readers. Known for his unapologetic approach to themes such as poverty, addiction, and existential angst, Bukowski became an influential literary icon.

Life With A Little “L” is a dramatic composition of six plays from Art Theatre, in the genre of dirty realism, set in & with music from 1950s-1970s America.

First, there was a play exploring loneliness (which is a very topical subject) about a young woman who responded to an older man's window advertisement, later visited his home, and found him to be quite a creep and predator, leaving her traumatised. For me, this was a somewhat confusing play, and I had trouble hearing the female actor due to the slightly louder background music. In spite of that, the art was very convincing.

Image showuing a female acgor on stage still like a mannequin, and a male actor sitting behind her. — Photo Credits: Valya Korabelnikova

In another play, a man pursued his romantic and sexual inclinations towards a mannequin, which was amusing. When the character's relationship wasn't going so well, he turned to his love of this mannequin that he bought in a store, a love that was heightened by the fact that the mannequin couldn't respond... A sad example of misogyny. The mannequin was played very well by Victoria Valcheva, and staying still must have been challenging. The character of the mannequin lover, played by James Viller, was executed perfectly. James displayed the psychological nuances and character styling with ease. A play that is the epitome of the saying ‘money can’t buy love’ (or can it?).

I was pleasantly surprised by the production and acting. The lighting design, though, was a highlight and really captured the essence of the performances. Very artistic and reminded me of some recent digital art experiences I’ve had the pleasure of attending. Hats off to Benjamin Vetluzhskikh.

The cast displayed great chemistry and illustrated American working class culture with aplomb (noting the authentic accents as well). Only downside I can think of is that it lasted for too many plays, and I wish it had been slightly shorter.

I would definitely recommend though, really great talent all round. The Riverside Studios are always a very welcoming environment, and lovely on a warm summers day or evening.

Cast:

Victoria Valcheva

Eileen Duffy

Will Stevens

Francesca Wilson Waterworth

James Viller

Creative team:

Director Anya Viller

Lighting Designer Benjamin Vetluzhskikh

Set Designer Sasha Dashevskaya

Venue

Riverside Studios