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Unstated at Southwark Playhouse

Elizabeth Peasley

'Stories that refugees carry with them are the stories of our time - an odyssey' (spokesperson from 'Human Cargo').

Arriving at the Southwark Playhouse you are transported en mass to an immigration reception centre and handed an identity card as you enter.

Unstated is a promenade production of originality and daring.

This play is a brave approach to drama and one that ultimately succeeds after a few turning points which include the risk of worrying an audience with potential fatigue, both physically and psychologically. So be it. The performance sets out to be a true depiction of the often desolate plight of the newly arrived immigrant seeking asylum.

This situation and the strong message of man's inhumanity to man is powerfully and convincingly portrayed by a talented ensemble of actors. the The director, Topher Campbell, uses filmed clips from interviews with experts such as lawyer Helena Kennedy – "...to be called an asylum seeker is almost a term of abuse" – The Refugee Council, refugees themselves and other human rights groups. These images all form a backcloth to the moving drama.

The drama expertly captures the authentic voice of conflict, conscience and choice which is so often present whether or not it is something we seek.

It is the final scene I feel which gives the play its real punch. The raw message is powerfully acted with skill, humour and pathos and the final words….' It's your house are you going to let him in?' reluctantly bring the reply ' I don't know , I don't know…I don't know….'

These words were ringing in my ears as I walked out of the theatre.

'Unstated' is a morality play of our times. Go to be challenged. You may be uncomfortable but you may experience theatre as a potentially life changing experience.

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