Going Viral: The Here And This And Now
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Launching in the middle of flu season, Glenn Waldron’s The Here and This and Now is a febrile response to the Chief Medical Officer’s warning of antimicrobial resistance. In three snapshots over 55 years we see the impact of a resistant virus on the play’s four characters who are united by their presence on a pharmaceutical sales ‘away day’.
The witty and inventive script keeps the story engaging at the sacrifice of the main theme. By the end, the play appears to be more of a cynical ribbing of the pharmaceutical industry than a serious call to arms over frivolous antibiotic use.
The characters are all well portrayed by a strong cast who seem capable of moving deftly between comedy and poignancy. Becci Gemmell shines as Helen, the surprisingly funny wallflower-turned-psychopath whose family is ravaged by the virus.
There are few enough medical errors, and enough jokes to compensate for them, to make this an enjoyable performance of a funny play with an unclear purpose.
The Here and This and Now, Southwark Playhouse, 78-85 Newington Causeway, SE1 6BD. Until Saturday 10 February.
Last Updated 16 January 2018
