Sub Rosa

Reviewed at the Citizens' Theatre, Glasgow, in 2009. NB There may be changes to the cast as well as the use of the theatre space.

Sub Rosa is proof that promenade and site-responsive productions can be effective pieces of theatre. Rather than walking the usual ‘gimmicky’ line, the play manages to encompass the entire Citizens Theatre building, creating an intriguing story while also celebrating the actual space itself.

Aptly titled Sub Rosa (meaning ‘secret’), the piece is built upon the discovery of numerous layers, both in plot and in location. Even a glance at the single-sheet programme gives too much away, and in the spirit of fair play I will not divulge the story, characters or where the tour takes its audience.

What you do need to know is this: the production is presented as a tour that lasts for roughly 80 minutes. Groups of 15 are taken through the bowels of the Citizens by two tour guides, and along the way characters from the past come out and tell interlocking stories that chronicle the events of something that happened long ago. It requires you to not only go into dark, cold and dusty areas but requires to walk for extended periods, sometimes twisting around long corridors and climbing high stairwells.

There are many praiseworthy aspects to the production. First and foremost is the physical use of the Citizens’ building. A mixture of lighting and sound make for some interesting and original ambiance, and the actual scenes are not only well executed but occur in important locations for the actual story being told. The cast are uniformly excellent with each person playing a character that is both believable and bigger than life.

David Leddy, serving as both writer and director, has not only managed to create an exciting experience filled with superb images but has written a very literate script that has numerous memorable passages, ranging from fast-paced comedy to moments of sheer horror. Certain images sharply pop out, and wonderfully descriptive lines make for many of the best moments.

This may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but anyone looking for a production that is both an original experience and an excellently crafted piece of theatre will find much to enjoy. Just make sure you’re dressed comfortably and ready for some serious walking.

On a final note, I must report that on January 20, a fire alarm interrupted one of the actors mid-monologue. The entire company should be praised for not only evacuating the building in an efficient manner but in being able to pick up where the action left off 30 minutes prior. As much as I enjoyed the piece, perhaps it has an even better flow when seen without interruption.

Reviewed at the Citizens' Theatre, Glasgow in January 2009.

NB Fringe performances begin every 20 minutes from 22.20-23.20 and 00.00-00.40.