Review: TRU, Menier Chocolate Factory

Photo credit: Johan Persson

“Life is a moderately good play, with a badly written third act” – Truman Capote – is quoted in the programme for this production of Tru, which has just opened a strictly limited run at the Menier Chocolate Factory, following a critically acclaimed season in New York earlier this year. 

We meet Truman Capote in the third act of his life. It is 1975, Just nine years before his death at the age of 59, Capote is lamenting an ill-judged career choice. Scandalous stories of some of America’s wealthiest socialites have been published in Esquire Magazine, a problem for Capote, as it was him that penned them, as part of his yet to be published ‘masterwork’ “Answered Prayers”. As a result of this, Tru finds himself alone and reminiscing just days before Christmas.

Jay Presson Allen’s script is said to be drawn entirely from Capote’s own words, creating a perceived intimacy with, and deeper understanding of the troubled artist. Indeed the whole piece is exceptionally intimate - the theatre space at the Chocolate Factory has been transformed into the main living room of a sumptuous and spacious New York Apartment. Paul Farnsworth’s set design is remarkable in its attention to detail and its lavish touches. It also exceptionally well considered, since the audience are sat in the room, with the performers acting amongst us. 

Jesse Tyler Ferguson gives a stellar performance as Truman Capote, shifting effortlessly between the fun-loving party animal - life and soul of the New York Elite, and the depressive, alcoholic narcissist, wallowing in self-pity and bitter regret. Ferguson's exceptional performance keeps the audience hooked for the 90-minute piece, which is as informative as it is entertaining. Charlotte d’Amboise gives an artful portrayal as “The Swan”, symbolising many of the female characters mentioned throughout Tru, including the wealthy and famous ‘Swans’,§ the women in Capote’s inner circle, many of whom he referred to unfavourably in the published excerpts of “Answered Prayers”, and whom Tru will not be able to count among his friends for the remainder of his life. 

Lighting designer Jamie Platt has had to contend with an unconventional rig, all the lighting fixtures are recessed into the false ceiling of Capote’s apartment, which is a blessing for the historical accuracy of Farnsworth’s beautiful set. There are many well placed lamps around the room, which help add light to the space, as well as adding atmosphere and ambience to some of the scenes set during the evening. Platt’s lighting brings warmth where it is needed, and startling contrast when required, often around the movements of ‘The Swan’ drawing attention to the symbolic sequences beautifully performed by d’Amboise.

Tru is a fascinating biographical piece of theatre, superbly performed, with a beautiful set. Though peppered with humorous moments and anecdotes, the tone of the piece is largely melancholic, and a cautionary tale about the frailty of fame. Sure to be well received during its limited run, Tru is a must-see for anyone with an interest in the life of Truman Capote, and the fascinating friends he alienated at the peak of his career. 

 **** Four stars

Reviewed by: Sarah Brown

Tru runs at Menier Chocolate Factory until 14 November, with further info here.