Review: BETWEEN THE RIVER AND THE SEA, Royal Court Theatre
Photo credit: Holly Revell
Between the River and the Sea, in the Upstairs Theatre at the Royal Court, is a one-man play written by Isabel Sedlak and Yousef Sweid and performed by Sweid himself. Between the River and the Sea mixes personal storytelling with broader political issues, interweaving themes of identity, displacement, and the realities that are Israel and Palestine face. The play moves between storytelling that can feel like a memoir and informal lecture, providing audiences with the right amount of historical context without feeling like a history lesson.
The play begins in a striking way with Sweid casually running onstage, almost as if he is late to his own show, which immediately breaks down any barriers between him and the audience. This informality sets the tone with this being an intimate, conversational, and unexpectedly open play. Sweid is very personable, chatting with the audience in a way that feels natural rather than forced, and it works to his favour with the audience being with him from the start.
The structure cleverly interweaves political context with snapshots of his personal and family life. This balance helps to offset heavier material with humour well. The jokes land well because they are humanised. Sweid is trying to make sense of his own choices and circumstances with the audience. He weaves in his own perspective subtly, explaining why he made certain decisions without ever being didactic.
The minimal and stark staging puts all the focus on Sweid, which feels intentional. Lighting shifts are used to set the mood and help with transitions. The lack of visuals keeps the piece from becoming cluttered or overly explanatory, although they could have helped add more light to some explanations.
Sweid’s performance is expressive and emotionally open, moving smoothly between humour and seriousness. One minute the audience is laughing, and the next they are sitting and contemplating more serious content, and this works very well.
The ending echoes the beginning in its abruptness. Though what begins light and casually closes on a much more serious note, and this contrast reflects the journey that the audience have experienced. Although this play with its stark setting and serious tones may not be for everyone, it leaves a strong impression on those it reaches.
Between the River and the Sea is thoughtful and personal whilst placing itself well inside the bigger picture.
**** Four stars
Reviewed by: Alexandra Tullah
