Neoliberalism at what cost? IPHIGENIA IN SPLOTT: an examination of the morality of austerity

Iphigenia in Splott arrives at Red Stitch Actors’ Theatre with ensemble member Jessica Clarke (The Cane, Pomona, Rules for Living) delivering a powerful and provocative solo performance as Effie who hails from the Welsh working class district of Splott.

Gary Owen’s reworking of the Ancient Greek play Iphigenia in Aulis takes its theme of human sacrifice and contextualises it in the modern day, examining those who get left behind in the pursuit of power and profit, and the consequences of neoliberalism’s war on community, morality, and human dignity itself.

“I wonder, just how long we are going to have to take it for? I wonder what is going to happen when we can’t take it any more?”

Owen’s extraordinary text pulsates with brutal poetry and a gripping narrative told by Effie. As shocking as she is, Effie exhibits a sly humour, and a deep insight about the world around her. Through her tale she becomes a warrior for the forgotten classes, a battle cry against the conservative social policies that create unconscionable situations for her kind.

Iphigenia in Splott is directed by Gary Abrahams (Pomona, 33 Variations, Angels in America,) with set and costume design by Sophie Woodward and Jacob Battista, lighting design by Rachel Burke, and sound design and composition by Daniel Nixon.

Premiering on June 5 at Red Stitch’s Home on Chapel St, Iphigenia in Splott runs until July 4.

Tickets and more information can be found at the Red Stitch website.