Hilarious Satire “Revenge: After the Levoyah” Debuts at Corn Exchange

The highly anticipated satire, Revenge: After the Levoyah, premiered at the Corn Exchange on November 4, 2023, following a celebrated run at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Written and directed by Nick Cassenbaum, this production delivers a rapid-fire blend of humor and social commentary, showcasing the complexities of Jewish identity in contemporary Britain.

The play features Dylan Corbett-Bader and Gemma Barnett as Jewish twins, Dan and Lauren, who return from their grandfather’s funeral, or Levoyah. They soon find themselves embroiled in an absurd plot to kidnap the Prime Minister, portrayed humorously by a stool. The narrative unfolds against a backdrop of political controversy, with the character of Prime Minister Jeremy Corbyn facing accusations of antisemitism, which some in the narrative vehemently deny.

The twins are propelled into this chaotic adventure by the character of Malcolm Spivak, an East End gangster with ties to their late grandfather. As the plot thickens, the twins team up with Moishe, a 94-year-old Holocaust survivor who leads an octogenarian group advocating for remembrance and justice.

A Comedic Journey Through Chaos

The play takes a sharp turn into comedic absurdity as the twins attempt their botched kidnapping. The inclusion of a racist plumber adds another layer of humor, alongside a liberal female rabbi who questions the meaning of antisemitism. As the story progresses, it becomes clear that the situation is spiraling into chaos, all while maintaining a comedic tone.

A particularly memorable scene involves a high-speed car chase, during which the twins attempt to thwart their pursuers using a jar of chrein (grated horseradish), resulting in a slapstick moment that leaves audiences in stitches. The comedic timing and physicality displayed by Corbett-Bader and Barnett are standout elements of the production.

Under the deft direction of Emma Jude Harris and with a minimalist set design by Alys Whitehead, the production effectively conveys its message regarding the diversity of Jewish experiences in the UK today. This balance of humor and social critique resonates strongly with audiences, inviting them to reflect on the complexities of identity while enjoying an entertaining performance.

The combination of sharp wit and engaging performances has garnered Revenge: After the Levoyah critical acclaim, including a five-star rating at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. As the production continues its run at the Corn Exchange, it promises to captivate audiences with its unique blend of humor and thought-provoking themes.