Privacy, Donmar Warehouse

With issues of surveillance and privacy dominating the media, James Graham’s latest play is certainly topical. Inspired by the secrets famously leaked earlier this year by Edward Snowden, the young American computer specialist at the US National Security Agency, this new production asks what the current intrusion on personal information means for the way we live our lives now and in the future.

In the modern world, where we are constantly surrounded by CCTV cameras and no-one can be sure that their communications aren’t being monitored, it can often feel as though privacy no longer really exists. As governments listen to phone calls, big corporations collect and sell our personal information, and every last detail of our lives is shared through social networking sites, Graham confronts the audience with difficult questions about identity and security in the digital age.

Playwright Graham is best-known for his Olivier-nominated political drama This House, which enjoyed not one but two runs at the National Theatre. This gripping play about parliament between 1974 and 1979 was carefully researched, demonstrating a rigour that Graham has also brought to bear on his new show. He has used material from interviews with journalists, politicians and analysts – but with his distinctive stamp, we’re sure it will be far from dry.  

This production is directed by Josie Rourke, artistic director at the Donmar Warehouse, whose previous credits include the hit West End production of Much Ado About Nothing starring David Tennant and Catherine Tate. The Donmar has produced a mixed bag recently, but this one looks hopeful. Given the track record of the theatre and its director, we expect some big names in the yet-to-be-announced cast. Tickets here have a habit of selling fast, so book early to avoid missing out.