Annie Lowry Thomas is sprawled out on the couch at the beginning of her latest solo performance for her Hacks company, winding down after what was supposed to be an epic party. The DJ is still spinning tunes in the corner, and there are still some balloons left to pop. Thomas just needs a burst of energy to keep the festivities going. She’s feeling a bit lost and unsure of who to trust in these uncertain times.
With everything that’s going on in the world, it’s no wonder she’s feeling this way. The show takes us back to the 1997 New Labour landslide that brought an end to eighteen years of Conservative rule in the UK. Thomas was just five years old at the time, but the effects of that political shift have shaped her life ever since, leading up to this year’s less-than-celebratory Westminster victory that sets the scene for her performance.
Moving between the couch and the microphone, Thomas presents a candid and humorously introspective look at how we arrived at our current state of affairs. Spoiler alert: things haven’t exactly improved, and there’s little indication that they will anytime soon. The show delves into themes of triumphalism, blind optimism, and a lack of commitment, all within its nearly hour-long duration. And that’s not even mentioning the fourteen years of Conservative governance, a worldwide pandemic, and scandalous lockdown parties at Downing Street. On a more personal level, Thomas’ relationship with her socialist parents plays a significant role in shaping her views.
In the midst of all this chaos, “After Party” stands as a beacon of clarity and sharp analysis, offering a glimpse into the messy world that Thomas grew up in, while hinting at better days ahead. The show is a testament to Thomas’ skill as a writer, weaving together a thought-provoking narrative that captures both the complexities and the joys of life in the midst of uncertainty. Through her performance, Thomas invites us to reflect on our own lives and the world around us, leaving us with a sense of hope and a renewed sense of purpose.