I went to see The Constituent at The Old Vic and it was one of the most relatable and socially relevant plays I’ve watched.

Currently on at The Old Vic Theatre in Waterloo, The Constituent tells the story of the turbulent relationship of an MP, played by Anna Maxwell Martin, and constituent and ex-veteran Alec, played by James Corden.

The Constituent tells the story of the turbulent relationship of an MP, played by Anna Maxwell Martin, and constituent and ex-veteran Alec, played by James Corden.The Constituent tells the story of the turbulent relationship of an MP, played by Anna Maxwell Martin, and constituent and ex-veteran Alec, played by James Corden. (Image: Manuel Harlan)

The play is directed by Olivier and Tony Award winner Matthew Warchus and written by Olivier Award winner Joe Penhall.

Penhall’s play couldn’t be more timely in its discussion of prevalent issues such as safety for female MPs, mental health and corruption within society.

The framework of the play, set up as a series of meetings between Monica the MP and Alec over a period of time, allows for much discussion into pressing matters of the day, whether that be cuts to local council budgets, NHS waiting times or the resounding impact of Covid-19 on our society.

The framework of the play is set up as a series of meetings between Monica the MP and Alec over a period of time.The framework of the play is set up as a series of meetings between Monica the MP and Alec over a period of time. (Image: Manuel Harlan)

James Corden gives a striking performance as Alec, switching from a charming and jubilant working man and father to a man consumed with his own ideals of justice, following the breakdown of his marriage and the ensuing custody battle for his children, and he becomes increasingly angered when his MP won’t adopt his ideas.

James Corden gives a striking performance as Alec, switching from a charming and jubilant working man and father to a man consumed with his own ideals of justice.James Corden gives a striking performance as Alec, switching from a charming and jubilant working man and father to a man consumed with his own ideals of justice. (Image: Manuel Harlan)

Anna Maxwell Martin's performance as Monica, a caring and well-meaning MP and mother who believes in the law and its framework to protect, becomes increasingly concerned for her safety, as her life is turned upside down by Alec’s mission to change the laws surrounding father’s rights.

Anna Maxwell Martin plays Monica, a caring and well-meaning MP and mother who believes in the law and its framework to protect.Anna Maxwell Martin plays Monica, a caring and well-meaning MP and mother who believes in the law and its framework to protect. (Image: Manuel Harlan)

The play, whilst dealing with the overarching storyline of a problematic relationship between Alec and Monica, exposes hidden issues as more of Alec’s troubled past is revealed.

Despite its dark topics and themes, at times the play still musters up a fair measuring of humour, even during the more tense scenes where Alec is in a heated discussion with a police officer played by Zachary Hart.

There is still a measuring of humour, even in tense scenes where Alec is in a heated discussion with a police officer played by Zachary Hart.There is still a measuring of humour, even in tense scenes where Alec is in a heated discussion with a police officer played by Zachary Hart. (Image: Manuel Harlan)

The Constituent is a poignant and well-executed play that explores very real issues that we as society are facing today, whilst being captivating and entertaining to watch.

The Constituent is currently playing at the Old Vic Theatre until 10 August with ticket prices starting at £13.