This play, constructed by Eileen Atkins from the correspondence and diaries of Vita Sackville-West and Virginia Woolf, is described as a love relationship in two acts. These two literary figures engaged in a most passionate affair that lasted almost two decades. The play deals with the relationship between them and the literary influences they had on each other.
Sackville-West, aristocratic wife of a career diplomat, was a sexual buccaneer with regard to lesbian affairs while Woolf, part of the Bloomsbury Set, was far more reserved. Her love was more in the head than in the heart.
This production was exquisite. Unlike a lot of Fringe shows, this one boasted a solid and realistic set. It divided the stage thereby sitting Virginia’s Bloomsbury and Rodmell homes alongside Vita’s Knole and Sissinghurst.
Valerie Dent was sheer delight as Virginia – a shabby creature in unflattering dresses and baggy cardigans. There was a wonderful air of shy innocence – almost virginal – in this portrayal as she succumbed to Vita’s wooing. Watching the subtle changes of facial expressions was surely worth the price of the ticket alone.
By contrast, Tamar K Karpas gave a far more flamboyant performance clad firstly in a black trouser suit, and later in jodhpurs and boots.
She reeked of sexual abandonment, loving Woolf yet unable to refrain from other affairs.
Their correspondence, full of wit as one described London parties and the other diplomatic duties in far off places, was so intimate at times that one felt guilty of eavesdropping.
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