The Long Run, by Katie Arnstein, is a poignant yet humorous exploration of life’s toughest battles, set against the backdrop of her mother’s cancer journey...
If you think a comedy about cancer cannot be done, think again. Katie Arnstein not only accomplishes this feat in The Long Run, but she does so with a deft blend of raw emotion, captivating story-telling and taste.
Few moments in life force us to rethink our approach to the world, particularly in our encounters with strangers. But Arnstein takes us through one such moment, where repeatedly crossing paths with a frustrating stranger in the hospital—while waiting for her mum to undergo cancer treatment—opens up a surprising exploration of vulnerability, patience, and unseen grief.
As we learn this stranger’s story, his battles, and the long road ahead, The Long Run gently reveals the quiet power of kindness, teaching us that even the most unlikely connections can transform us in ways we never expected.
The richness of Arnstein’s storytelling lies in its peculiar, vivid details. From the hospital vending machine dispensing cans of Tizer to walls painted in a sickly shade of snot green, from Elvis Presley's infectious laugh playing through headphones in the waiting room to the electric energy of the crowds at the London Marathon—you are pulled into each scene with a magnetic sense of presence.
you find yourself wanting to hold your loved ones tighter
Her mother’s harrowing cancer journey unfolds with unflinching honesty, often hard to stomach. But Arnstein masterfully eases the tension with biting wit and well-placed swear words, allowing the audience to catch their breath, laugh and brace for the next wave of emotion.
Beneath the rainbow-coloured bunting, The Long Run shines a light on life-changing friendships forged in the most unexpected, dire circumstances. As the performance draws to a close, you find yourself wanting to hold your loved ones tighter, moved by a story that balances inspiring victory with heartbreaking loss. By the final moments, the audience can no longer hold back—tears fall freely.
It is no surprise that Katie Arnstein was Highly Commended at the Women of the Future Awards in the Arts and Culture category. Her ability to tackle such heavy themes with grace, humour and emotional depth is to be celebrated.
The Long Run played at the Nottingham Playhouse on Thursday 26th September 2024.
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