Theatre review: Krapp’s Last Tape, Assembly Rooms, George Street

SAMUEL Beckett’s preoccupation with the human condition in his writing has always divided opinion. ****

Krapp’s Last Tape

Assembly Rooms, George Street

Star rating: * * * *

This production captures the timelessness of Beckett’s writing - simultaneously familiar and fresh. It’s Krapp’s 69th birthday and before he records an account of the previous 12 months, he reminisces with recordings from earlier years.

Samuel Beckett’s classic tragi-comedy is beautifully delivered by Last of the Summer Wine’s Tom Owen, whose measured skill makes for a captivating performance.

It’s a script written to be performed well; it demands the attention of actor and audience members alike. The simplicity of the production gives it power: a single desk lit by a spotlight, an intimate venue in which the focus is wholly on the actor, allowing the audience to build a relationship with the character and invest in his memories. Forget what you think about Beckett, this is accessible to anyone who enjoys live performance.

• Until Sunday