Atlantis review: Welsh climate crisis drama serves as a parable for our times

AI Summary

The play 'Atlantis' is a Welsh climate crisis drama that draws inspiration from the real-life story of Fairbourne village in Gwynedd, which is expected to be abandoned to the sea by 2055. The play explores the impact of climate change on a small coastal community.

The Inspiration Behind Atlantis

The play 'Atlantis' draws inspiration from the real-life story of Fairbourne village in Gwynedd, Wales. In 2014, residents of Fairbourne discovered that the local council had decided to abandon the village to the sea by 2055 as part of a process of 'managed retreat'.

The Plot and Themes

The play focuses on fisherman Bryn and his wife Gwen, and extends from 2011 to 2039, dramatising the impact of climate change on their community. It explores themes such as the burden of environmental consciousness and the imperatives and sacrifices of activism.

The Performance and Production

The committed cast, including Richard Elfyn and Vivien Parry, deliver strong performances. However, the production has been criticised for sentimentalising Wales as a timeless land of myths and legends, rather than a modern nation dealing with the challenges of climate change.

The Verdict

While the play raises important questions about climate change and its impact on communities, it has been criticised for its contrived dramatic tension and underexplored themes.