Low Down

A one-woman show chronicling the life and times of writer Dorothy Parker. A story of disappointment, squandered talent and regret all peppered with her legendary wit.

Review

The opening of Excuse My Dust! was unexpected due to the fact that Mrs Parker exclaimed to the audience that she would refrain from talking about her literary heyday of the 1920s. This left me wondering what exactly I would be watching for the next hour, a more abstract take on biography perhaps? I was disappointed then when the play and Miss Parker reneged on their initial promise. 

What struck me about the play was how traditional and unimaginative it was in terms of the narrative approach to its subject and staging, to the point where it was all a bit-by-the-numbers, troubled-childhood- check, famous friends-check, failed marriages- check. However, in the midst of the material there were some genuinely interesting moments of insight on the nature of literary reputation and America’s ever-shifting cultural landscape.

What saved the play from a descent into cliché was the charming and nuanced performance by Leslie Mackie as Mrs Parker. She portrayed a lifelong cynic drinking her self to death with an elegance and dignity that seemed only fitting for a woman so razor sharp and painfully self-aware. Mackie formed a delightful rapport with the audience from the outset as only a performer of consummate skill can. 

This was a flawed production, but is worth your time as a diverting character study and for a fine performance. 

Reviewed by DS 15th August

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