Translated by long-time collaborator Christopher Hampton, Florian Zeller's The Truth is a clever, fast-moving comedy about lies, infidelity and the increasingly complicated consequences of trying to keep track of both.
What makes The Truth particularly enjoyable is the clever interweaving of truth and lies. Running for 90 minutes without an interval, this one-act play centres on Michel, whose web of deceptions becomes ever more tangled as the truth threatens to emerge. With just four interconnected characters, the play delivers plenty of laughs while constantly shifting the audience's understanding of what is really going on. Zeller cleverly keeps the audience one step behind, constantly shifting perceptions of who is telling the truth and who is not.
Adding to the fun, each scene is introduced with a title projected above the stage — "Truth", "Lies", "Break Up" and more — giving the production an almost sitcom-like quality. These neat, self-contained scenes are little vignettes that director Lindsay Posner has successfully used to create a playful rhythm.
Set in France, the production is elevated by a wonderfully clever and stylish set designed by Lizzie Clachan. Moving panels glide effortlessly across the stage, transforming the space from bedroom to living room to tennis club in moments. The transitions are elegant, seamless and help maintain the pace.
At the centre of the play is Stephen Mangan, perfectly cast as Michel. Even when lying outrageously and behaving completely unreasonably, Mangan somehow makes Michel impossible to dislike. Mangan's natural charm and comic timing make the character endlessly engaging.
Jamie Dee is equally impressive as Laurence, exuding a sophisticated French elegance while providing the perfect foil to Michel's increasingly desperate attempts to stay one step ahead. Sarah Hadland and Ardal O'Hanlon complete a highly experienced and confident cast, with every misunderstanding, revelation and awkward pause landing perfectly. What makes this cast exceptional is they are all accomplished dramatic actors as well as able to deliver the laughs.
The Truth is a smart, polished and thoroughly entertaining evening that allows audiences to forget their own problems and enjoy being caught up in somebody else's.
It runs until 12 September. Tickets: here.
Photo: Johan Persson Review: Karen Jemison