Theatre review: The Tragedy of War in The Loft’s Production of The Women of Troy

Catharsis is an ancient Greek word for a process of cleansing. In drama that means the creation and relief of strong emotions through witnessing tragic or terrible events.

Classical drama is full of cathartic plays, and among them Euripides’ Women of Troy, now playing at The Loft Theatre, Leamington Spa, must rank as one of the most tragic. It is a heart-rending lament for the victims of war, and in particular the women of Troy as they wait to be divided up as spoil to the victorious Greeks.

David Fletcher’s new version of the play shortens the original a little. The language is perhaps more direct, more plain speaking. For example, Menelaus (Peter Daly-Dickson), one of the Greek generals, swears prolifically – and as such arguably loses something of poetic power. But the impassioned performances from the women, not least the chorus who are on stage throughout, drive their breast-beating laments with pained sincerity. It’s not comfortable to watch, but it is riveting.

The big cast consists of many young performers, many of whom are new to the Loft. There are undoubtedly some fine moments. Hecuba’s (Hannah Grainger Clemson) speech at the end of the play, when she berates Helen (Martha Allen-Smith) for her treachery, is a phenomenon to behold and a remarkable debut. Good luck to her. Olivia Cunningham as Andromache, who is commanded by the Greeks to give up her baby to be killed as an insurance against future insurrection, extends her suffering to the whole theatre.

The awfulness of their situations sometimes results in a little too much emotional intensity, but it is a difficult thing to achieve the right balance between full-on angst and deeper characterisation. On the whole the performances and the direction are sound, and the production has a compelling power.

Like much Greek drama, Women of Troy is not subtle. Arguments are thrashed out between opposing characters, and the conclusion is known from the start. The way we get there is what counts, and in choosing this play The Loft reminds us that there is nothing new in war, not least its impact on the innocent. 

Women Of Troy is playing ‘til 7 November 2026. Tickets https://lofttheatrecompany.com