With characteristic intuitive good timing the Arcola has programmed ‘On the Record’, a production about ‘real journalism’ and the integrity of the independent reporter. A refreshing refocus of perspective following the deluge of red top scandal we’ve been subjected to in recent weeks.

In the wake of a litany of news exposés from Wikileaks to Twitter to the current hacking debacle at News International, the ‘official version’ of news is no longer taken at face value; be it embedded photography, press releases from government, or sanitised reports.

‘On the Record’ presented by Ice and Fire Productions uses reportage, news conference, monologue and dramatised experiences of real life from independent journalists in Sri Lanka, Mexico, Moscow, Iraq and the Occupied Palestinian Territories to concentrate the focus on individuals driven by a commitment to speak out in life threatening situations 

This is a gritty night out without doubt, the six strong cast work their way around the real life stories of mafia, pornography, occupation, political corruption, war and the sanctity of freedom of expression. Director Michael Longhurst avoids sensationalist tactics, allowing the power of the stories to carry the piece on their own terms. The lighting design by Anna Watson includes coloured neon flashing scene changes that suggest the tacky dark side of the night, evoking seedy clubs. A series of microphones suspended from the ceiling present the link from investigation to broadcast. Paul Bhattacharjee and Selva Rasalingham are the Wickrematunge brothers in Sri Lanka printing stories no other publication dares to touch, and Trevor White plays the disillusioned American photo journalist to the military who finds his truthful eye censored. The female characters in the production offer an opportunity for powerful drama. Nathalie Armin as Lydia Cacho exposing the politicians and businessmen behind a Mexican child pornography ring, and Michelle Bonnard as Elena Kostyuchenko doggedly investigating police/mafia collusion in Moscow, both encapsulate the sense of courage of conviction over the vulnerability and fear of the individual. Their performances emphasize commitment to seeking and reporting the truth. Kika Markham as Amira Hass, the only Jewish Israeli journalist to live amongst Palestinians and report their lives, gives an intelligent and measured portrayal. Running for a straight hour and a half ‘On the Record’ is a powerful representation of the cause of the independent journalist.

Bryony Hegarty

Photograph - Nathalie Armin as Lydia Cacho and company in ON THE RECORD. Credit Tom Holloway

On the Record by Christine Bacon and Noah Birksted-Breen at the Arcola

20 July – 13 August

Studio 1

Arcola Theatre, Ashwin Street, E8 (020-7503 1646)

Bookings http://www.arcolatheatre.com/