The Apologists
A Secretary of State for Health and Social Care makes a racist comment to her attending doctor when her child is rushed into hospital; a prominent travel writer is held responsible for a suicide after a scathing review; an employee of an aid organisation demands the recompense she truly needs from the CEO after a disingenuous public apology.
The Apologists presents three topical stories which combined provide a powerful examination of the meaning of the act of apology, the complex power play at work between the giver and the receiver of an apology, and whether we are responsible for the context of our actions. Each solo story focuses on a female character, a high-profile woman, and the issues raised also shine a light on gender inequality and social justice.
Written by Lucinda Burnett (Correspondence), Cordelia O’Neill (No Place for a Woman) and Iskandar Sharazuddin (The Lift of Cardboard), Directed by Jane Moriarty (The RSC, The National, Shakespeare’s Globe) and performed by Gabrielle Scawthorn (The Doctor Blake Mysteries, The Killing Fields, Village Bike), the spotlight is on our obsession for words – whether empty, truthful or even justified.
The Apologists premiered at the 2019 VAULT Festival to critical acclaim. It later received Arts Council England funding for a small tour in early 2020 culminating in a much lauded season at The Omnibus Theatre in Clapham.
Supported by Arts Council England, Luton Hat Factory, Omnibus Theatre and The Bunker.
★★★★★
“I will be surprised if I see a better stage performance this year.”
- Up Close Culture
★★★★★
”An impressive success for Unlikely Productions.”
- Broadway World UK
★★★★
“Amongst the best single-handed plays I have seen.”
- West End North
★★★★
“A vivid portrayal of emotional struggle in the face of public shame.”
- The Upcoming
★★★★
“A brilliantly performed trio of monologues.”
- The Stage
★★★★
“Scawthorn is simply amazing in this monologue triptych... A 65 minute tour de force.”
- Carole Woddis
★★★★
“In three excellent performances, Gabrielle Scawthorn transforms.”
- British Theatre
★★★★
“There are generous helpings of food for thought in this engrossing production.”
- London Theatre1
“An hour of exceptionally high quality drama.”
- The Play’s The Thing
“With strong writing and compelling performance, it’s definitely one to see this week.”
- Theatre Things
"Gabrielle Scawthorn is magnificent.”
- Lyn Gardner
