Swap the Press invites an exploration into the world of news production during the 1960s, but with one (crucial) difference – women are holding all of the positions of power whilst men are fighting to gain equality. Through this, the production highlights the absurdity of gender roles and stereotyping during the sixties and highlights the sexism that existed within both the news and larger society.
In this world, men are expected to carry out all domestic tasks whilst their wives are pushed to be the breadwinners. In the corporate world of the newsroom, women hold the positions of reporters whilst men are simple assistants. Though the initial situation for the men in the newsroom appears futile to change, we begin to see cracks in the women’s power as the play progresses. As men begin to speak out against the inequalities they face, power appears to be redistributed and we can gain some hope that change is possible.
Swap the Press commits to highlighting the sexist undertones of actual headlines during the sixties. The play is scattered with news stories which featured throughout the decade and raises questions as to whether they would have had the same acceptance if gender roles had been reversed. Despite these intense themes and serious messaging of the production, the cast were able to create moments of laughter, which were particularly endearing and warmed you at points to many of the characters.
Sat alongside each other, Billy, Edward, and Michael created a powerful trio and created some of the most comical aspects of the show. They created an ecstatic energy as they interacted with one another, bouncing off of each other’s previous comments, allowing you to be absorbed in one scene in particular. However, whilst bringing an initial light-hearted atmosphere, their characterisation progresses to become quite chilling, creating moments where the audience is forced to rethink the situation that these characters are in.
The play included intense moments of suspense, with multiple dramatic scenes where the greatest connections were made between the audience and the characters on stage, as it became impossible not to sympathise with their expressions of anger and distress. Marge and Jean created some particularly poignant scenes throughout the production. We initially see them both as hard-shelled characters who will prevent anyone from stepping on their power, and their presence is domineering throughout most of the show, but the vulnerability of these characters emerges. It’s difficult to present such vulnerability whilst not losing the initial strength of the characters, but this was achieved wonderfully.
Change in character was seen most aptly with Edward and Michael. Their change was initially quite subtle, but grew dramatically, which was particularly interesting and created one of the most thought-provoking aspects of the show. Debbie and Thomas portrayed their own relationship dynamic, both characters with a relatively soft persona. In these moments, Debbie especially was able to show her vulnerability and in turn, we also begin to see aspects of Thomas’ power emerging as the play progressed.
Rating: ★★★★☆
SUTCo’s Swap the Press is running until October 28th at the University Drama Studio. Get your tickets here
