‘Iphigenia In Splott’: A Politically Charged, Must-See Play

Effie (Meg Clarke), a woman growing up in the working class area of Wales known as Splott, knows you’re judging her. Words like “slag” and “skank” are thrown her way as she wanders down the street, and she’s only ever a few hours away from her next hangover.

Yet as New Ghosts Theatre Company’s revival production of Gary Owen’s Iphigenia in Splott continues, it reveals itself to be about much more than a confrontational, dysfunctional woman. After one night changes everything for Effie, the pitfalls of the systems that have defined her existence become clear in their utter apathy for those doing without.

Returning to Sydney with its original cast and crew after five years at the Old Fitz Theatre, this revival production of Iphigenia in Splott is absolutely remarkable thanks to Meg Clarke’s stunning performance and subtly brilliant direction by Lucy Clements. Its harrowing tale sears with political commentary, all while balancing heartbreak and humour as two sides of the same potent coin.

The entire play consists of a monologue by Effie, who impersonates various other people in her life throughout. It really can’t be overstated just how phenomenal Meg Clarke is as Effie – it’s no easy feat to deliver a lengthy monologue like this that requires both heartbreaking emotional honesty and impeccable comedic timing.

Assisted by some expertly subtle lighting, Clarke is able to transform the minimal set into a variety of locations with her words and physicality alone. Effie’s tale takes us to a number of locations throughout Splott, and Clarke’s incredible performance brings it clearly into life in front of us.

Iphigenia in Splott earns its modern classic reputation

It’s easy to appreciate why Gary Owen’s script for Iphigenia in Splott has been regarded as one of the best plays of the last decade with this production, too. The script is absolutely biting, rife with an understated frustration at the systems dictating the lives of people like Effie. A Splott-native, Owen’s anger is palpable throughout. Despite a lot of Wales-specific theming, it nonetheless sizzles universally with commentary applicable the world over.

It’s an absolutely electric play, and crackles with the kind of energy that only high quality theatre can give you. Not only is it another stellar entry in the Old Fitz’s remarkable programming, but it’s a vital opportunity to see an acclaimed production revived with the creatives that made it so special to begin with. Only playing for a short season, don’t miss this chance to see Iphigenia in Splott.

Iphigenia in Splott is playing at the Old Fitz Theatre until March 22nd. Book tickets here!