Confronting modern terror

A south London estate because a microcosm of hatred and fear as right-wing scaremongering whips up a climate of fear, when bright yet misunderstood teenager Gary, writes a school project defending Osama Bin Laden, arguing that he is a hero (by definition) to some people.

His shocked and scared neighbours convince themselves that he is the vandal responsible for the firebombing of waste bins and garages on his estate.

They work themselves into frenzy, leading to a threat to Gary’s safety. Suddenly we are in a situation where the vigilantes have taken over. Gagged and tied to a chair and in scenes assuredly designed to bring to mind the excesses of Abu Ghraib, Gary is forced to confess to crimes that he has not committed.

In this way, Kelly reminds us of the vengeful world that we are living in post 9/11, with people putting two and two together and coming up with five, where “logic takes a holiday”. Despite a lack of evidence, one of his accusers argues: “You don’t need evidence for terrorists.”

Act I is a highly stylised affair. Gary’s character is wonderfully drawn, appealing to the audience with his good humour, magnifying the tragedy to come. The second act is more literal while the third is a series of monologues, demonstrating the affect of the characters’ actions on their personalities after the event; showing the most frightening thing about terrorism – its ability to corrupt those who are its victims.

The play is directed by Erin Stewar Tanti and the cast includes Luke Farrugia, Karl Cassar, Joe Pace, Davinia Hamilton and Larissa Bonaci. The play is rated 18.

Tickets at €15 can be booked by calling 21 223200 or emailing [email protected].