A Very Expensive Poison

Written by Lucy Prebble
Awards:

  • Evening Standard Theatre Award for Best Play (2019)

Synopsis
A Very Expensive Poison is a darkly satirical and surreal retelling of the assassination of Alexander Litvinenko, a former Russian spy poisoned with polonium-210 in London in 2006. The play explores the political intrigue surrounding the case, examining the roles of the Kremlin, the British government, and the media. Blending biting humour, gripping drama, and moments of theatrical absurdity, Lucy Prebble crafts a searing critique of corruption, power, and the human cost of political conflict.

Themes and Analysis

  • Political Corruption: The play delves into the machinations of international politics, exposing the insidious reach of authoritarian regimes.

  • Truth and Justice: Prebble examines the challenges of uncovering and addressing the truth in a world rife with secrecy and manipulation.

  • Human Cost of Power: Litvinenko’s story highlights the devastating personal consequences of political vendettas.

  • Theatre as Commentary: By using theatrical techniques such as direct address and surreal imagery, the play underscores the absurdity and horror of the events it depicts.

Key Moments

  • The Poisoning: A chilling depiction of the poisoning itself sets the tone for the play’s exploration of betrayal and danger.

  • Litvinenko’s Testimony: A poignant scene where Litvinenko recounts his story and implicates the Kremlin in his assassination.

  • The Surreal Interludes: Moments of dark humour and surrealism punctuate the narrative, highlighting the absurdity of the political games at play.

  • The Climactic Revelation: The play culminates in a scathing critique of global inaction and complicity, leaving audiences both outraged and contemplative.

Critical Reception
A Very Expensive Poison was widely acclaimed for its inventive approach to political theatre. Critics praised Lucy Prebble’s ability to balance humour and gravitas, creating a play that is as entertaining as it is thought-provoking.

The Guardian called it “audacious and brilliant,” while the Evening Standard described it as “a blistering satire with a tragic heart.”

Why It Resonates Today
In an era of increasing political unrest and disinformation, A Very Expensive Poison serves as a timely and urgent examination of power and accountability. Its exploration of the human impact of political violence remains profoundly relevant.

Fun Facts

  • The play is based on Luke Harding’s book of the same name, which investigates Litvinenko’s assassination.

  • The production’s use of unconventional staging and multimedia elements garnered significant acclaim.

  • Lucy Prebble is also known for her work on acclaimed TV series such as Succession and I Hate Suzie, showcasing her versatility as a writer.