Keeping Body and Soul Together

Synopsis

Small Northern Town, Present Day. A darkly comedic look at fear, obsession, and unexpected companionship

Margaret is preoccupied by an intense fear of nuclear annihilation. Consumed by this paranoia, she constructs a makeshift cellar in her small terraced house, preparing for the worst. Meanwhile, her life takes an unexpected turn with the arrival of Ronnie, a mystical lodger who challenges her fears and offers a different perspective on life.

Set in a confined space, the play unfolds with a blend of humour and tension, capturing the claustrophobia and absurdity of Margaret’s efforts to safeguard herself. As she interacts with Ronnie, Margaret’s rigid worldview begins to shift, leading to moments of introspection and unexpected comedy.

Lowe’s writing skillfully balances the dark themes of fear and survival with sharp wit and human warmth. The characters’ interactions highlight the absurdities of extreme caution and the possibility of finding solace and change through unexpected relationships.