Accidental Death Of An Anarchist
by Dario Fo
Cast members:
Lou Webb
Rebecca Mahon
Grace Alexander Scott
Hayley Considine
Georgina Stamp
Nicola Moss
Director: Kim Gillespie
Review - Accidental Death of an Anarchist
Published: 6th November 2008 22:37
LICHFIELD GARRICK'S STUDIO SEES AN EXTREMELY LIVELY AND ENERGETIC PRODUCTION FROM ITALY'S BEST KNOWN PLAYWRIGHT, DARIO FO THIS WEEK.
Director Kim Gillespie has made the script his own and his successful adaptation is supported by an extremely strong all female cast. Originally written for a male cast this twist perhaps tells us a little about Gillespie as he comments himself, "Aren't women just as capable of the behaviours displayed in the play?" (Garrick programme.) The women's characters cover all stereo types: Lou Webb as Bertozzo, Grace Alexander-Scott as Pissani and Nicola Moss as the superintendent, were particularly strong. The rapport between the cast made for a fast paced production.
Rebecca Mahon was perfectly cast as Maniac, who single handedly exposes the corruption and inconsistencies of the police and manages to get to the truth. The characterisation is in the name, Maniac! and Mahon plays her with enormous energy and conviction providing many of the laughs through her disguises and impersonations.
Some of the scenes were very physical and needed tight choreography which the cast dealt with easily. The opening scene was proof of this as was the impromptu version of, "Chattanooga Choo Choo!!" The company imaginatively uses The Studio's compact space. Set design has built a mezzanine level which provides an interesting dimension to an otherwise flat space. Gillespie's strong modern adaptation uses many contemporary and local references which certainly made the audience laugh out loud.
I would definitely recommend it to you.
Review by Jill Alldritt
