Leigh Douglas stars in a provocative new one-woman play titled “Chastity Quirke,” where she embodies a sorority girl turned White House receptionist. Real time with Bill Maher, the show takes on sexism and political satire. Propped up by an administration run by president Ronald Drumpf, it provides equal parts comedy and wisdom. Mediocre, which received its first full production by the Abbey Theatre, just finished a sold-out run at last year’s Edinburgh Fringe. Now, it’s going to London, reaching its destination with perfect U.S. politics is particularly hot.
On her debut album in “Chastity Quirke,” Douglas vividly introduces the album’s titular character. Chastity thinks she’s key to the entire Drumpf operation. Rather than being mere window dressing, Chastity Quirke navigates the chaotic corridors of power, asserting her importance in an administration often characterized by its overt sexism and other discriminatory attitudes. The story calls out the toxic political culture. At worst, it indicates that Drumpf is indeed interested in illegally prolonging his presidency for more than two terms.
Leigh Douglas’s performance is a standout. Besides Chastity, she deftly plays a host of supporting characters during the 70-minute performance. The very spare set design still powerfully enforces this dynamic, giving Douglas room to zip between personages with an ease that suggests no borders could ever bind her. She takes on a lurching gait and predatory stares to imitate Drumpf’s male counterparts. This results in both a funny and sad depiction of their attitude. The female characters are coded as sprightly and flirtatious, sharpening the focus on the buffoonery of the administration’s machinations.
Directed by Fiona Kingwill, “Chastity Quirke” marries corrosive wit to a deeper critique of the times we live in. The play offers audiences a unique perspective as it highlights the ridiculousness of a power structure that often marginalizes voices like Chastity’s, while simultaneously showcasing Douglas’s talent for humor and character versatility.
The immersive production is preparing to make its London debut. It comes at a moment when the policy and political implications of American federalism are impossible to ignore. The timing of the run makes the play all the more relevant in today’s world. It invites viewers to explore its fierce critique of public policy and patriarchy.