Burnt Out

Burnt Out is a play by Gary Mitchell that was first performed in 2023 at the Lyric Theatre Belfast as part of the Belfast International Arts Festival. It is a blackly comic psychological thriller that exposes the darker side of suburban life. Mitchell is a British playwright based in Northern Ireland who is known for his political thrillers about contemporary life in Belfast, and has been called Northern Ireland's greatest playwright. His writing is known for its blazing conviction of lived experience and its unfashionable relish for strong plots.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 12 October 2023
Publisher: Nick Hern Books

On the surface, Michael and Cheryl seem to have it all. They reside in a luxurious new home in a suburban area of Belfast, hold respectable jobs, and even have a charming collection of 2.4 pets. However, their lives take a sinister turn when they unknowingly become the targets of a hate campaign that involves the disappearance of animals, the defacement of property with graffiti, and even explosions.

Gary Mitchell's play, Burnt Out, is a darkly comic psychological thriller that delves into the darker aspects of suburban life. Originally performed in 2023 at the Lyric Theatre Belfast as part of the Belfast International Arts Festival, this play showcases Mitchell's talent for creating compelling and thought-provoking drama.

Gary Mitchell, a British playwright based in Northern Ireland, has gained recognition for his plays, which often explore the political and social dynamics of contemporary Belfast. His works have been widely performed and praised for their intense and gripping narratives. Mitchell's writing is characterized by a combination of raw emotion and a keen understanding of human nature, resulting in plays that are both powerful and deeply relatable.

One of Mitchell's most notable works is Burnt Out, which tells the story of Michael and Cheryl, a seemingly perfect couple living in a picturesque suburban neighborhood. However, as the play unfolds, it becomes clear that their lives are not as idyllic as they seem. They are living opposite a bonfire site, which becomes the focal point of a hate campaign orchestrated by a group of unknown individuals.

The campaign starts with the disappearance of Michael's beloved dog, followed by the defacement of their home with racist graffiti. As the tensions escalate, the couple begins to experience unexplained explosions and other disturbances, leaving them feeling frightened and vulnerable.

Through the course of the play, Mitchell explores the themes of prejudice, fear, and the consequences of living in a divided society. He examines the ways in which individuals can be manipulated and controlled by those in power, and how the fear of difference can lead to acts of violence and hate.

Burnt Out is a masterfully crafted play that employs a combination of humor, suspense, and social commentary to engage the audience. Mitchell's writing is characterized by a sharp wit and a keen sense of pacing, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats as the plot unfolds. The performances by the cast are equally impressive, with each actor bringing their own unique perspective to the characters and delivering powerful and nuanced performances.

In conclusion, Gary Mitchell's play Burnt Out is a must-see for anyone interested in exploring the darker side of suburban life. Through its compelling narrative and thought-provoking themes, this play offers a powerful commentary on the human condition and the challenges we face in a divided world. Whether you are a fan of drama or simply seeking a thought-provoking experience, Burnt Out is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Dimension: 198 x 129 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839042935