Review: WE HAD A WORLD at Hampstead Theatre

Does the lifetime of sparring and combativeness between Ellen (Anna Francolini) and Renee (Suzanne Bertish) make for good theatre? You betchya. Which presumably, is precisely why the writer Joshua Harmon (here played by Ryan Kopel) penned his unapologetically semi-autobiographical play WE HAD A WORLD which casts a spotlight on his family’s complex and often feisty interactions. Particularly noteworthy, is the fact that it was written with his grandmother’s consent (in fact, express encouragement) towards the end of her oft-tempestuous life.

It’s easy when critiquing Jewish family dramas, to embroil oneself in doubts around whether the inherent New York City clichés have been grossly overused, or (as is the case here) are devastatingly subtle and apropos. Bertish’s Renee is a bastion of self-restraint, effortlessly assuming the guise of a 1960s bohemian, Francophile matriarch whose decision-making and often dismissive, familial communications style, creates resentment and future burdens. A one time Desdemona to Donald Sinden’s blackface Othello, Ms Bertish is a consummate actor of the old school, who wouldn’t be caught dead overplaying and who instead, possesses the instinctive discipline of knowing when to keep still, allowing the dialogue to do the heavy lifting which is so pertinent to any production mounted in a more intimate space like Hampstead Theatre’s downstairs venue. 

The grounded nature of her portrayal of an overtly flamboyant character, anchors the whole, allowing her fellow players equal moments to shine. Francolini’s passive aggressive argument style (and occasional exasperated outbursts) are borne of decades during which she has tried to find common ground and mediate, only to be rebuffed or lied-to about matters which she sees as important signifiers of respect and fairness. As her son, Kopel delivers a stylish lesson in diplomacy, attempting to bridge the chasm of understanding which exists between the two women. We are left in no doubt about the extent of his determination to have a functioning and meaningful relationship with both. 

The interplay is laced with a gentle balance of ingredients — acid barbs, brutal observations, sensitivity and sweet compassion. It’s a recipe requiring much stirring and moments of rest. The end result, I am happy to report, is a delicious and spicy ensemble piece worthy of Edward Albee.

WE HAD A WORLD plays downstairs at Hampstead Theatre until 4th July, and has a running time of 1 hour and 45 minutes straight through without interval.