Relics
22 June 2026
Lyric Hammersmith
4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Relics is currently running at the Lyric Hammersmith until 18 July. Ben Ockrent’s dark comedy is a family drama that really leans into the comedic side despite its heavier moments.
Four siblings come together to dissolve their recently deceased mother’s estate, but when secrets boil to the surface and the quartet is confronted with a morbid reality, temperaments get in the way of making difficult decisions.
The entire play happens in the living room that is gorgeously decked out in 60s features and decor, as well as a large hospital bed reminding of the recent family loss. It’s a beautiful set that really serves to build a mood of nostalgia and loss right off the bat. Though the sombre mood doesn’t last long when sibling rivalry gets the better of the four very different siblings. The narrative build very slowly, satisfyingly well written with so many quips and family in-jokes, giving the impression that the audience is looking in on an actual family having to make devastating decisions while trying to get along. Relics is absolutely exquisite writing paired with fantastic acting, drawing up a believable setting that draws the viewers in immediately, allowing them to silently take sides.
There’s some morbid topics woven into the narrative, but the comedy is the heaviest factor within this play, really playing up how ridiculous sibling infighting can get over the smallest disagreements, with resentments held onto for decades from earliest childhood. It’s beautifully constructed and so much fun to watch.
An utterly absorbing storyline filled with hilarious moments and the most exciting slow-motion interlude I have personally witnessed in any stage production. Really good entertainment with a deeper message that’s delivered wrapped in comedy.
