Robert Tanitch reviews 3 Winters at National Theatre/Lyttelton
Tena Stivicic’s social drama is set in Zagreb during key historical events in 1945, 1990 and 2011.
The 70 years cover the start of communism, the break-up of Yugoslavia and independence, gruesome civil war, and, finally, being accepted by the European Union.
Stivicic describes how one Croatian family, driven by independent women, survived and didn’t survive under these different regimes.
The large house in which they live is the leading character. The big question is to whom does it actually belong and will the family be able to keep it?
The house was originally built for aristocrats but when the communists were in power it was divided into compartments for communal living. An opportunity in the 21st century to buy it arises. But what will be the moral cost?
The play is very talky, and not always easy to follow in the first act, but it will undoubtedly have a special resonance for Croatians who have lived and suffered through their recent history.
The country has been ripped apart. Hard decisions made in one era then have to be justified in another era. Families are divided. Audiences who are not up in Croatian history should arrive early and read the programme.
Howard Davies has directed so many of the National’s best productions and his expertise, in particular with the plays of Maxim Gorky, makes him the perfect director for this four-generation family drama and the politics which govern their actions.
Old newsreels, often grim reminders of the past, are superimposed on Tim Hatley’s versatile set.
The first-rate ensemble includes Adrian Rawlins and Siobahn Finneran. Sophie Rundle, as a bride on her wedding day, has the last word and in a great tirade she sets the theatre aroar with delight.
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