Finborough theatre, London
Jordan Hall’s play dips its toes into surviving global apocalypse but only explores romantic disaster
This play will not teach you how to survive an apocalypse. Pitched as a romcom about the complexities of survivalism, this four-hander by Canadian writer Jordan Hall is a dinner-party drama about four millennials unsatisfied with their lots. Persuaded to think being able to pitch a tent might improve their lives, they are drastically disappointed when it does not.
The main thrust of the plot is Jen’s (Kristin Atherton) attraction to hunting-licence-owning Bruce (Ben Lamb), next to whom her husband, Tim (Noel Sullivan) – kind, funny, and not into shooting things – pales in comparison. To hide her desire to spend time with Bruce, she sets him up with her friend Abby (Christine Gomes), whose partner recently broke up with her: a different kind of world ending. The four actors perform well together, but it’s with Tim that our allegiance lies – Jen is infuriating in her inability to see what she’s got.
How to Survive an Apocalypse is at Finborough theatre, London, until 23 October.