Hermione's Dinner & Toxic
A double bill at White Bear Theatre
138 Kennington Park Road, London SE11 4DJ
17th June to 28th June 2025 at 7.30pm
Hermione's Dinner
Carla, one of that rare breed of women who harbour a powerful aversion for children, is hoping to save her old friend Roger from being drawn into the clutches of Sue, a woman who desperately wants to 'start a family'. Roger was equally unenthusiastic about the prospect of fatherhood but has he now changed his mind? Carla is introduced to Sue at Hermione's dinner party. Hermione, prematurely aged by the rigours of parenthood, is struggling to control her unruly and malevolent children whilst being constantly reminded of the glittering career she was forced to give up. The battle lines are drawn.
Written by Ian Dixon Potter
Directed by Phoebe White
Original music composed and performed by Neil Thompson
REVIEW (of an earlier version of the play):
"Carla neither wants children herself nor can tolerate the children of others. Invited to a dinner party where her old university friends either possess or crave them, her views are unpopular to say the least. Ian Dixon Potter is back in Alan Bennett territory with the writing here" "A difficult subject to discuss without losing audience sympathy."
★★★★ Theatre Monkey
Toxic
A monumental ego and a self seeking ruthlessness have propelled Fletcher to the top of his profession. An 'alpha male' in every sense, Fletcher surrounds himself with flatterers and sycophants who fear and loathe him. Knowing his reputation for preying on young female employees, Caroline keeps her distance but an opportunity to advance her career propels her into Fletcher's lascivious clutches.
Written by Ian Dixon Potter
Directed by Phoebe White
REVIEWS (of an earlier version of the play).
“Melanie Thompson's easy articulacy is engaging” “Fertile ground for debate in a way similar to Mamet’s “Oleanna” – where the lines and boundaries of morality are a valid subject for heated argument” “To say more would spoil the interest in this piece. Writing and acting are strong.”
★★★★★ (four and a half Stars) Theatre Monkey
“One might not agree with Caroline’s course of action, but this is a thoughtful and compelling production. ” “An interesting take on what it is to climb the career ladder whilst making compromises along the way to achieve one’s ambitions” “Caroline’s engaging nature certainly helps keep the viewer interested"
★★★★ London Theatre 1
“Clearly a comment on the whole #MeToo movement of recent years, this is a tightly scripted and thought provoking piece where the actions and morality of both key characters are called into question. When a tragedy ensues the audience is left wondering to whom the title may refer."
John Chapman '2nd From Bottom' Online Theatre Reviews