The Barrier explores what happens when cultures clash and the values of people living side-by-side diverge by pitting two sets of neighbours in the Stamford Hill area of contemporary Northeast London against each other.
If you know Stamford Hill at all, then you probably already have a hunch about at least one set of the neighbours in this one act play. Yep, The Barrier centres round a conflict involving an ultra orthodox Jewish family and the secular family living next to them. Stamford Hill is home to London’s Hasidic community.
The central conflict of the play seems rather outlandish (from my viewpoint anyway) but perfectly plausible to any Londoner who ever has had to deal with disagreeing neighbours. It also serves as a window to explore the inner conflict of the characters and indeed oneself in the audience.
I pass through Stamford Hill all the time; the tone there seems different than in other parts of London (even compared to other ethnically lopsided areas). I’ve often wondered what it’s like to live there. I think this play gives real insight and makes you squirm a little no matter your take on religion and community. It’s worth checking out.
The Barrier runs until 20 October at the Park Theatre, Clifton Terrace, N4 3JP. Find out more at parktheatre.co.uk.
