Podcast Summary: MickeyJoTheatre - "Kyoto (@sohoplace, West End) - ★★★★★ REVIEW"
Host: Micky Jo
Release Date: January 22, 2025
Podcast Title: MickeyJoTheatre
Episode Title: Kyoto (@sohoplace, West End) - ★★★★★ REVIEW
Introduction to "Kyoto"
In this episode, Micky Jo delves into his recent experience watching the West End's newest play, Kyoto, at Soho Place. Celebrated for his insightful theatre critiques, Micky Jo provides an extensive analysis of the play's portrayal of the landmark 1997 Kyoto climate conference. He sets the stage by highlighting the play's significance in addressing the climate crisis through a theatrical lens, aiming to inspire and galvanize audiences despite prevalent societal disillusionment on the topic.
Notable Quote:
"It is just as unfortunate a reality as the climate crisis itself that audiences are disillusioned with hearing about the climate crisis. How then do you create a piece of theatre that will leave attendees feeling galvanized and hopeful in spite of the slow death of the planet?" [00:00]
Overview of the Play’s Themes and Story
Kyoto is authored by Joe Murphy and Joe Robertson of Good Chance Theatre, and directed by Stephen Daldry and Justin Martin. The narrative centers around the 1997 climate conference in Kyoto, Japan, where developed and developing nations convene to forge a global plan to reduce fossil fuel emissions. The play explores the intricacies of international diplomacy, political maneuvering, and the human element behind environmental agreements.
Micky Jo commends the play for transforming a complex and seemingly dry subject into engaging theatre, drawing parallels to Shakespearean drama with its multifaceted characters and political intrigue.
Notable Quote:
"It focuses on events in the past in the years leading up to this conference in 1997. And it delivers a great story and audience will engage with and will respond to a great story." [05:30]
Creative and Directorial Choices
The collaboration between directors Stephen Daldry and Justin Martin brings a dynamic and masterful theatricalization to Kyoto. The circular set design by Miriam Buther serves multiple symbolic purposes, representing both the conference floor and the historic Kiyomizu Dera Temple in Kyoto. This flexibility in staging allows for seamless transitions between different settings and moments within the play.
Micky Jo emphasizes the innovative use of multimedia elements, such as recorded videos and live presentations, which enhance the storytelling. The integration of music and sound effects, including a drum kit reflecting Don Perlman's cavalier attitude, adds depth to the narrative and underscores key emotional beats.
Notable Quote:
"The playing space itself, this circular set design from Miriam Buther that becomes several different things. I mean, largely, it is the conference floor. It also becomes a representation of the stage in the historic Kiyomizu Dera Temple in Kyoto..." [18:45]
Character Analysis
Don Perlman:
Portrayed by Stephen Kunkan, Don is the central anti-hero of the play. An American lawyer and pro-oil lobbyist, his journey from obstructionist to a conflicted individual grappling with his actions is compelling. Micky Jo praises Kunkan's performance for its determination and charisma, effectively embodying Don's internal and external struggles.
Shirley Perlman:
Jenna Organ delivers a nuanced performance as Shirley, Don's wife, who grapples with her husband's moral stance. Her character serves as a moral compass, questioning the righteousness of Don's actions and embodying the personal costs of political maneuvering.
Raoul Estrada:
Jorge Bosch portrays Raoul, the optimistic chairman of the Kyoto conference. He acts as a foil to Don, embodying warmth, patience, and unwavering hope. Micky Jo highlights Raoul's role in facilitating the transformative agreement that marks the play's climax.
Supporting Characters:
Nancy Crane as Sue (U.S. Representative) and Kristen Atherton as Angela Merkel add depth to the ensemble, each bringing conviction and passion to their roles. Ferdy Roberts as John Prescott and Raad Rawi contribute both humor and gravitas, enriching the play's dynamic.
Notable Quote:
"Stephen Kunkan plays Don Perlman with such determination and unexpected charisma. He presents to us this truly complex and layered and realized antihero..." [35:10]
Staging and Production Design
The production's set design is both versatile and symbolic. The circular layout not only facilitates the depiction of the extensive Kyoto conference but also symbolizes unity and the cyclical nature of political discourse. Screens strategically placed around the set display relevant materials, such as sections of the Kyoto agreement, enhancing the audience's understanding of the negotiations.
Micky Jo appreciates the directors' ability to convey the play's pacing through staging techniques. For instance, the transition from tedious debates to intense, fast-paced decision-making is effectively portrayed through dynamic movements and spatial arrangements within the auditorium.
Notable Quote:
"The script speaks to some of the limitations of the staging and the staging to some of the limitations of the script. What I mean by that is that in the script they tell us that they're having this momentary meeting... the staging in the direction takes measures to convey the pace of the ratification..." [24:50]
Performances
The ensemble cast delivers standout performances that elevate Kyoto beyond its script.
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Stephen Kunkan (Don Perlman): His portrayal captures the essence of a man torn between personal ambition and the greater good. Micky Jo commends his ability to convey complex emotions and evolving motivations.
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Jenna Organ (Shirley): Her subtle, yet powerful performance as Shirley showcases the emotional toll of Don's actions, adding a personal layer to the political narrative.
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Jorge Bosch (Raoul Estrada): Bosch embodies the idealistic leader, whose optimism and integrity provide a stark contrast to Don's cynicism.
Notable Quote:
"Nancy Crane is quite wonderful playing Sue, the representative from the United States, particularly as she becomes more frustrated and she encounters more roadblocks largely put in place by Don." [42:00]
Strengths and Shortcomings
Strengths:
- Compelling Narrative: The play successfully transforms a historical political event into an engaging and relatable story.
- Character Development: Complex characters with distinct motivations enhance the dramatic tension.
- Innovative Staging: The versatile set and multimedia elements effectively support the storytelling.
- Emotional Depth: Balancing political discourse with personal narratives adds emotional resonance.
Shortcomings:
- Character Stereotyping: Micky Jo notes that the depiction of the Seven Sisters as dark and mysterious feels insincere, undermining their menace.
- Western-Centric Perspective: The narrative heavily focuses on British and American perspectives, potentially marginalizing other national viewpoints.
- Visual Inconsistencies: While screens display sections of the Kyoto agreement, Micky Jo feels that more consistent visual representation of specific clauses would enhance understanding.
Notable Quote:
"When we meet the seven Sisters... they are depicted as dark and mysterious. And it feels insincere to the extent that it sort of undermines the legitimate menace of that concept." [31:15]
Conclusion and Overall Impression
Micky Jo concludes with high praise for Kyoto, emphasizing its importance and brilliance in addressing the climate crisis through theatre. He lauds the play for its urgent and timely message, exceptional writing, and flawless direction. The finale, featuring Shirley Perlman's poignant reflection and the symbolic cherry blossoms, leaves the audience with a haunting reminder of nature's fragility amidst political progress.
He strongly recommends the play to his listeners, highlighting it as a powerful, vital, and beautifully crafted piece of dramatic theatre that successfully merges historical accuracy with emotional depth.
Notable Quote:
"I think it's urgent, I think it's timely. I think it addresses something vital and current by looking to the recent past. I think what it's doing is exceptional and it happens to be doing it exceptionally well." [55:40]
Final Thoughts
Micky Jo's review of Kyoto serves as a comprehensive guide for theatre enthusiasts and newcomers alike. By dissecting the play's themes, characters, and production elements, he provides valuable insights into its success and areas for improvement. His passionate endorsement underscores the play's significance in contemporary theatre and its potential to inspire meaningful conversations about climate change and international cooperation.
For those interested in compelling, thought-provoking theatre, Kyoto at Soho Place comes highly recommended by one of the most respected voices in theatre criticism.
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