The Prodigal Daughter

The cast clearly have a grasp on what they are trying to achieve but are severely let down by petulant, dull lines

★★
archive review (edinburgh) | Read in About 1 minute
Published 02 Aug 2007

Two conflicts dominate the homecoming of Mina from America: the Korean War and a personal struggle between Westernised Mina and her aged mother. A chance encounter with an American colonel reveals a horrific family secret, leading the play to explore alienation, paedophilia, trust and shame.

No doubt this is a potentially intriguing play but it is let down by its unsubtle script and formulaic direction. Despite opening with attention-grabbing nudity, it is hard to become fully involved in the drama. The cast clearly have a grasp on what they are trying to achieve but are severely let down by petulant, dull lines such as "I hate Korea, I hate this World, I hate everything about living," destroying any potential the play might once have had.