Synopsis

Anne, the elusive and multifaceted main character, is explored through a series of seventeen disjointed and overlapping scenarios, the play sketches various versions of Anne’s identity – she’s depicted as everything from a terrorist to a mother, and even a porn star. Each portrayal is delivered through fragmented dialogues by multiple speakers, painting a kaleidoscopic picture of Anne that challenges the audience’s perception of truth and identity. Crimp’s narrative structure is deliberately non-linear, compelling the viewers to piece together the shards of Anne’s life, and questioning the authenticity of the narratives we consume.

Crimp’s play delves into themes of alienation, media influence, and the fluid nature of identity, using stark and poetic language to create a haunting atmosphere. The shifting and ambiguous settings reflect the constructed realities and subjective truths of modern life. “Attempts on Her Life” stands as a provocative exploration of how identity is shaped and distorted by the stories told about us, making it a powerful piece of avant-garde theatre.