Writer: Nick Cassenbaum
Director: Emma Jude Harris
REVENGE: After the Levoyah is a biting and satirical exploration of the complex discourse surrounding modern antisemitism. Set against the backdrop of the run-up to the 2019 General Election, the production takes aim at the manipulation of growing antisemitism to advance political agendas. The plot unfolds as East-End gangster Malcolm Spivak comes up with a plot to abduct (at the time) Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn. Nick Cassenbaum’s breakneck script dives headfirst into the absurdity of this narrative.
Directed by Emma Jude Harris, REVENGE: After the Levoyah employs sharp humour and a fast-paced plot to explore the chaos and contradictions that marked this fraught period in British politics. Careering through a panto-cast of characters (all played by performers Gemma Barnett and Dylan Corbett-Bader) these tight performances are always in control. This lends a delicious weight to when to the slapstick humour slips, revealing a darker critique of how the existence of antisemitism is sometimes used to deflect from substantive debates.
After a deceptively slow start, where we learn that non-identical twins Lauren (Barnett) and Dan (Corbett-Bader) have just lost their grandfather, the show quickly spirals into a series of comedic escapades, with a motley crew of characters—ranging from a Holocaust survivor in his nineties to a Rabbi in Doc Martens to the C.I.A —competing for control of Corbyn. In the process, the production satirises the absurdity of the media-driven narrative that painted Corbyn as an ‘existential threat’ to Jewish life.
The performances are nothing short of impressive, particularly given the challenge of multi-roling such a large cast of characters. Barnett and Corbett-Bader showcase remarkable versatility, seamlessly transitioning from one role to another with ease and precision. Their chemistry as siblings is recognisable to anyone with a brother or sister of their own, which adds depth to their dynamic and creates a strong emotional anchor amid the chaotic farce. This rapport extends to their portrayals of other characters, where they exhibit a keen understanding of each persona, from the Nazi-bashing Malcolm to the probably-Nazi plumber.
The fluidity with which they move between these various roles makes every character interaction feel grounded, whether they’re playing opposites or allies. The energy between them drives the show’s fast-paced dialogue, amplifying the chaos while ensuring each character’s unique voice is clearly defined and distinct.
In its cleverly constructed farce, REVENGE: After the Levoyah shines a light on the Anglo-Jewish experience, the rise of antisemitism and the dangers of media-induced hysteria. It offers a reflection on the power of rhetoric and the moral ambiguity that sometimes surrounds the use of antisemitism as a political weapon.
Runs until 25 January 2025
