The Meat Kings! (Inc) of Brooklyn Heights review – the American dream on the chopping block
Park theatre, LondonAlliances and enmities form among a crew of butchers who are trying to shape new lives after prison despite ICE, addiction and the financial lure of criminalityBusy kitchens...
By Arifa Akbar · The Guardian Culture
Park theatre, London Alliances and enmities form among a crew of butchers who are trying to shape new lives after prison despite ICE, addiction and the financial lure of criminality Busy kitchens contain an inherent, high-pressure drama. The backroom of Arnold Wesker’s Italian restaurant in The Kitchen is one such bubbling space, as is Lynn Nottage’s Pennsylvania sandwich shop in Clyde’s . Hannah Doran’s Papatango prize-winning play, which takes place in a butcher’s shop, joins the ranks. Like in Nottage’s play, the formidable owner, Paula (Jackie Clune), tends to employ ex-prisoners. This brings the notion of new beginnings but also turbulent pasts and narrowed choices. Doran’s Brooklyn establishment manifests the hopes and disappointments of the nation’s underclass. It is essentially a dissection of the American dream, beginning with 4 July celebrations when the Italian-American meat store receives a massive order. At Park theatre, London , until 29 November Continue reading...