REVIEW: Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo
Image: The Naked Magicians (Photo: David Alexander; Star Observer)
Set in Baghdad in 2003 in the aftermath of the invasion, this is one of the earliest written plays depicting the chaos of the time. Written by Rajiv Joseph in 2009, this fits into a plethora of film and literature produced about the trauma of the Iraq war experience.
The story revolves around two American soldiers, Kev and Tom. Whilst on duty guarding the Baghdad Zoo one night, Kev shoots dead a rare Bengal tiger after it bites off Tom’s hand as he is trying to feed it.
From here their fates are intertwined, along with Iraqi interpreter Musa, as they are haunted by ghosts both past and present.
The play is actually based on a true story of a real-life incident where a US soldier had his arm mauled at the zoo. Of 650 animals the zoo housed prior to the invasion, only about 35 animals survived the Battle for Baghdad, not including several escaped lions some of which were shot by soldiers.
Maggie Dence embodies the role of the tiger well, in a role previously played by Robin Williams on Broadway, she encapsulates the movement of the caged tiger, slinking back and forth in her cage then prowls the streets of Baghdad haunting the characters after her death. Supported by an excellent ensemble cast, there are some fine performances here.
This is an intelligently written, witty and well-performed play that will leave the audience with many unanswered questions.
Sydney audiences are lucky to have a production of this caliber currently showing at the Old Fitz.
Until May 6, Various performance times. Old Fitz Theatre, 129 Dowling Street, Woolloomooloo. $30-$42.Tickets & Info: www.redlineproductions.com.au
Review by Vanessa Powell.
