The Holy Rosenbergs: A Family's Moral Conundrum in Suburban London
In the world of theatre, few things are as captivating as a family drama that delves into the complexities of morality and identity. Ryan Craig's play, The Holy Rosenbergs, is a prime example of this genre, and its revival on stage is a thought-provoking experience. Set in a Jewish suburban dining room in 2009, the play explores the aftermath of the Rosenberg family's eldest son's death, who had left to fight for Israel.
The play begins with a sense of unease as the family gathers for a meal, their usual catering business seemingly unaffected by the tragedy. The parents, played by a finely acted cast, struggle to maintain their composure as they frantically paper over the cracks. The daughter, Ruth, a lawyer investigating human rights abuses in the war on Gaza, adds fuel to the fire, heightening tensions within the community. The family's catering company, with its ancient roots, becomes a backdrop to the unfolding drama.
One of the most intriguing characters is Lesley, played by Tracy-Ann Oberman, who acts as the family's glue. Despite her best efforts, she can't prevent the family's disintegration. The play's humour lies in the family's attempts to maintain their image, with macaroons and marble cake being foisted on the unwilling guests. However, the real tension lies in the family's internal struggles, particularly David's, played by Nicholas Woodeson, who is desperate to be a pillar of the community despite feeling like an outsider.
The play's strength lies in its exploration of the family's moral dilemmas and the impact of geopolitics on their lives. The characters, like useful debating positions, pop in and out, carrying crucial reports in buff envelopes. The spuming arguments and the bleak silences when talk fades away are equally powerful. The play's timing is particularly apt, given the embattled and conflicted state of British Jewry. The family's struggle to do right by their principles, community, and each other is a reflection of the broader societal challenges.
In my opinion, The Holy Rosenbergs is a must-watch for anyone interested in family drama and the complexities of identity and morality. The play's exploration of the family's internal struggles and the impact of external events is both thought-provoking and engaging. The revival is a testament to the enduring power of theatre to explore the human condition and the challenges we face as a society.
