BWW Reviews: BULL, Young Vic, January 15 2015
By: Kate Finburg Jan. 16, 2015
When redundancy looms over a team, it might consider employing the theoretical 'suicide pact' method, whereby if one member gets the boot, the rest of the team will walk too.
Whilst cosy in theory, these alliances soon fall apart (as fans of Veep will know).
There was no sign of such camaraderie in Mike Bartlett's 'Bull', however, currently showing at the Young Vic.
Waiting for a meeting with their boss, the stakes are high for three colleagues verbally sparring for their vague yet seemingly high-powered careers over the office water cooler.
Set in the round with some of its audience standing up close and personal, the 55-minute show runs the gauntlet of personality assignation and the shredding of dignity in the battle for survival in the boardroom (I've been watching too much Apprentice, apologies).
Drippy Thomas (Sam Troughton) proves the ideal cannon fodder for power players Isobel (the impeccably icy Eleanor Matsuura) and Tony (suave Adam James)
The weaker and more confused Thomas becomes by their manipulations, the more the audience are torn with sympathy for an under-dog and an uncomfortable feeling of relief at not being the bullies' meat.
Mark Barlett's electric writing is complimented perfectly by Clare Lizzimore's bold direction. Together, they really hit the 'bulls-eye' (cast me on The Apprentice immediately).
Until 14 February. Extra dates added.
£25, £10 concessions and standing.
0207 9222 922
Comments
Videos