Customer Reviews

Skylight: A Play

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After writing "The Secret Rapture," his indictment of complacency in Thatcherite Britain, and his trilogy of plays on British institutions, David Hare understandably needed a break from writing political theatre. His next play, "Skylight," defied expectations and marked a new phase in Hare's career. Unlike the political plays that precede it, "Skylight" is, to use its author's terminology, a Jim and Tim play: two main characters discuss their lives, their feelings and their relationships, and if any broad themes are to be gleaned it is the role of the viewer and not the playwright. Hare's play is a standalone masterpiece of chamber theatre, and, when compared with his other work, it is even more astounding.

Hare is an old time lefty who has made a fortune and a career on his dismay over the fact that England is not a communist utopia. This piece sets up an adolescent conflict: a dull girl would prefer to be a low-paid school teacher in a dismal section of town instead of shacking up with her rich paramour. "Come with me," I say. "No, the children need me." Of course, in Hare's world, she's right. Making a 'difference' teaching hopeless children is obviously more noble and worthwhile than employing thousands in industry. Walking to work, superior to driving a Jaguar. Eating out of a tin, more satisfying than a fine meal in a posh restaurant... Eager to see Hare in this commune? Don't count on it. You are more likely to find him sipping a martini at his reserved table at the Ritz.