From the esteemed early-career writer Aaron Thakar (Artificially Yours @ Riverside Studios) comes the brand-new Under the Table. Thakar of Parkhouse Pictures collaborates with Itchy Feet Theatre (The Nine-Day Queen @ Barons Court Theatre, The Defamation @ Riverside Studios).
A heartbroken actor forges an unexpected connection. A disillusioned voter takes drastic action. A disgraced radio host fights to reclaim his reputation. And as a secret auction begins, hidden agendas come to light. As four loosely connected plays weave together, sex, politics, money, and religion intertwine in a caustic reflection of contemporary Britain.
A heartbroken actor forges an unexpected connection. A disillusioned voter takes drastic action. A disgraced radio host fights to reclaim his reputation. And as a secret auction begins, hidden agendas come to light. As four loosely connected plays weave together, sex, politics, money, and religion intertwine in a caustic reflection of contemporary Britain.
Under the Table will be performed at Barons Court Theatre from Jan 21st-Feb 1st at 7.30pm. Ahead of the run we spoke with Aaron Thakar to learn more.
What can you tell me about Under The Table?
Under the Table is a brand-new play exposing the dark side of contemporary Britain through four loosely connected stories, weaved together to explore Sex, Politics, Money and Religion. It’s a wickedly funny yet deeply unsettling exploration of human nature.
Where did the idea for the piece come from?
The political and social state of this country last year led me to reflect on how many of our current affairs and news events are rooted in abuses of power. Drawing inspiration from shows like Inside No. 9 and Black Mirror, I wrote this piece with an almost episodic structure. Each of the four parts tells a unique story, united by themes and characters that are both relatable and challenging. We’re giving audiences four plays for the price of one!
How did you approach the writing process for this piece?
I originally envisioned the four parts as standalone shows, but as I developed them, I realised how seamlessly they complimented each other. I began to rewrite them all to be a similar structure and tone and pieced them together to create an engaging and cohesive evening of theatre.
How do you structure the piece when you’re writing and developing the ideas?
It was important to get the order of the four shows right for me. The audience can expect a rollercoaster of emotions, with every laugh closely followed by an unsettling moment. The four one-act plays hold no punches and will hopefully keep audiences on their toes.
How has the collaboration with Itchy Feet Theatre been?
Working with Itchy Feet Theatre has been fantastic. They are a company that also champions up-and-coming creatives and dynamic stories that push the boundaries of theatre. This co-production between Parkhouse Theatres and Itchy Feet Theatre has been very exciting, especially having such a young team behind this highly collaborative process.
Where did your arts career begin?
I began as an actor but found my love for writing during lockdown (like every other creative under the sun!). Last year, I wrote my first play, Artificially Yours, which enjoyed a successful two-week run at Riverside Studios and starred the incredible Leslie Ash. Under The Table marks my directorial debut, and I couldn’t it’s been so rewarding to share this role with Jen Tucker, a fantastic friend and co-director.
What keeps you inspired?
Watching as much new writing and theatre as I can, especially because there’s so much great fringe theatre out there for affordable prices. Also surrounding myself with likeminded actors, directors and writers who will let me bounce ideas off them and give me honest feedback to help me develop my work. I like having people who can tell me if something’s rubbish and how I can improve it!
What do you want an audience member to take away from seeing Under The Table?
I want audiences to reflect on their personal beliefs, placing themselves in the moral dilemmas the four pieces present. Under the Table is designed to ask uncomfortable questions around morality, loyalty and how far ethical principles may bend when placed under financial, personal and political pressure.
Where and when can readers see the show?
Under the Table comes to Baron’s Court Theatre for a limited two-week run from 21st January-1st February! Tickets are just £12 for concessions and £15 standard price! We can’t wait to see many of you there!
Tickets are available from https://www.baronscourttheatre.com/
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