National Theatre Live: Prima Facie

National Theatre Live: Prima Facie

National Theatre Live’s latest production, Prima Facie, is a powerful and thought-provoking one-woman show written and performed by Australian playwright and actor Suzie Miller. The play explores the issue of sexual assault and the challenges faced by women who come forward to report such crimes.

Prima Facie tells the story of Tessa, a successful barrister, who is the victim of sexual assault by a colleague after a work event. The play takes the audience through Tessa’s experience of the legal system, her interactions with the police, lawyers, and judges, and the emotional toll of the trauma she has endured.

What makes Prima Facie such a compelling production is its raw and honest portrayal of sexual assault and the pervasive culture of victim-blaming that still exists in society. Suzie Miller’s writing is sharp, intelligent, and unflinching, and her performance is nothing short of outstanding. She brings Tessa’s story to life with an intensity and vulnerability that is deeply affecting.

The play also raises important questions about the legal system’s treatment of sexual assault victims, particularly in relation to the burden of proof and the use of character evidence. It exposes the institutional biases that can make it difficult for women to achieve justice in cases of sexual assault and highlights the urgent need for change.

Prima Facie is a timely and powerful play that is sure to leave a lasting impact on its audience. It is a call to action for all of us to confront the pervasive culture of sexual violence and to work towards a society that is safer and more just for women.

National Theatre Live’s production of Prima Facie is available to watch online until November 17th, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who is interested in theatre that challenges and provokes. It is a must-see production that will leave you with much to think about long after the final curtain.