3Women at Trafalgar Studios

Katy Brand’s new comedic play 3Women, directed by Michael Yale, presents a bold feminist point of view at a time when the issue of gender equality is at the forefront of political debate. Writing from a loosely biographical perspective, Brand has centered the piece around three characters: a young 20-something woman, Laurie (Maisie Richardson-Sellers), her mother Suzanne (Debbie Chazen) and her grandmother Eleanor (Anita Dobson).

Employing a family reunion in a hotel room as a setting, the work takes a frank look at the issue of women’s rights through the experiences of three people. Thought-provoking and also very funny, the dialogue exposes some very genuine emotions that reflect what many women feel in terms of what it’s like to be female in our society, and explores generational differences in attitudes and expectations. Eleanor is elegant and intelligent, but an alcoholic, and drinking sets off a heated debate with her daughter and granddaughter that reaches levels of intriguing intensity.

With a large dose of honesty, the narrative displays the realities of muddling through in a confusing world in conjunction with, but also slightly in counterpoint to, political idealism. The unifying idea is that the future can be more inclusive in terms of equality of the sexes, but also that women can be in charge of their own paths in life and of their own well-being.

As a contrasting and important element, to include one male character (Oliver Greenall) – who is unsure of his role in a changing world – highlights that mutual cooperation is essential to achieving gender parity.

Starring the former EastEnder Anita Dobson, with Richardson-Sellers, Chazen and Greenall, 3Women’s success is defined by this exceptional and well cast group of actors, as well as excellent writing and directing. The performances are superb – moving, witty and on point – supported by solidly rounded and developed characterisations.

Highly entertaining, hilarious, perceptive and engagingly poignant, 3Women at Trafalgar Studios is a must-see.

Catherine Sedgwick
Photo: Charlie Round-Turner

3Women is at Trafalgar Studios from 15^th May until 9^th June 2018. Book your tickets here.