The new play The Emperor by Colin Teevan arrives at HOME this month for a 12-day run. The production is heading our way following a sold-out run at the Young Vic in London, where it received hugely positive reviews. Set in Ethiopia in the 1970s, the play is an exposé of the excesses of the country’s leader, Haile Selassie. Actor Kathryn Hunter plays the entire cast of characters, all of whom are loyal servants of the despotic ruler. Using tiny alterations to costume, stance and accent, she creates distinct personalities for each character. Over the course of the hour-long performance, these characters tell a story of corruption, avarice and the collapse of absolute power. Hunter’s performance was singled out for praise by the critics, while Ethiopian musician Temesgen Zeleke provides live music throughout the show. The Emperor is produced by the team behind Kafka’s Monkey, which was a huge hit at HOME and also starred Hunter.
Wed 28 Sep – Sat 8 Oct, HOME, 2 Tony Wilson Place, First Street, Manchester, M15 4FN, Tel. 0161 200 1500, Show times vary, £10 – £26.50, homemcr.org
- Words:
- A. James Simpkin
- Published on:
- Thu 6 Oct 2016
