I’m a sucker for deliberately ambiguous imagery. For me it encapsulates the multiple perspectives that are both the hallmark and high point of drama as an art form.
The imagery I’m referring to in this play is that suggested by the title. Stitching is an image of putting things back together, of mending them. It’s also an image of………but that would be a spoiler.
Anthony Neilson’s play is tight and sparse, funny and confronting. It tells the story of Abby (Lara Lightfoot) and Stuart (Wade Doolan) who must decide whether to keep the child she is carrying.
An unplanned pregnancy is the perfect symbol of the enormity of sexuality, the worlds it contain, beautiful and harsh, unexpected and frightening. (Not that I should really call the natural consequences of sexuality a symbol – am I that naive?)
Aided by director Mark Westbrook, Doolan and Lightfoot give beautiful performances, understated and subtle.
After the scenario I’ve briefly sketched, Stitching goes down a psychological path I couldn’t (or didn’t want to) follow. Once again, the spoiler rule prevents me from discussing this much further, but suffice to say it’s about coping mechanisms. It will certainly lead to thought provoking post show discussions.
But see it for yourself. Stitching is a well performed, engaging hour of theatre.
Veronica Kaye
Stitching by Anthony Neilson
TAP Gallery til 12 April
Theatre Red 
Fantastic review!
I saw Stitching in the same 24 hour period I saw Nymphomaniac, and I can honestly say I’m not quite over that day yet. (may take therapy)