Theatre Review - HANGMAN - PEOPLES THEATRE - NEWCASTLE

 

Harry (Ian Willis) photo Paul Hood

Hangmen, written by Martin McDonagh, is difficult to describe, except to say it deals with dark and disturbing themes in a very sardonic way. You find yourself laughing, whilst also thinking ‘is this ok?’ It’s a little unsettling what subjects can be made ‘funny’. Set in the sixties, we start by watching a man called Hennesey as he seemingly attempts to argue his way out of the noose at the last hour with his protestations of innocence. Hangman, Harry Wade, is having none of it and the job of his hanging is done. Cut to a couple of years later in the now-retired Harry’s pub, the government have abolished hanging and, as the (formerly) second-best hangman in the country, people want to hear his thoughts. The warm mood of the Oldham pub changes as a stranger appears and old colleagues visit. The subject of Hennesey, and the question of his guilt, comes up several times through the show – but was it Harry who took his life or the courts?

Alice (Alison Carr) & Mooney (Craig Fairbairn) photo Paul Hood

Director Matthew Hope has created a thought-provoking and entertaining show that keeps the audience’s attention with its dark ‘gallows’ humour. The music between scenes was a clever nod/link to the actions it bookended as swift scene changes took place. The set, lighting and sound (all designed by Tim Swinton) were nicely detailed and gave an excellent ambiance to the whole production.

Hangmen photo Paul Hood

The whole cast was very strong and all showed excellent skill throughout. Harry, played by Ian Willis, had such perfect timing and showed us the true colours of a pompous man who doesn’t feel the need to question why he thinks something. The chilling, yet charismatic, fast-talking newcomer Mooney, was played by Craig Fairbairn, who was mesmerising as he intimidated and undermined those around him.

The play itself, reflecting the attitudes of the times and handling sensitive themes, is not for the faint-hearted, with some violence, strong language and outdated attitudes on display. That notwithstanding, it’s a very funny, dark and atmospheric play.

Running until 8^th March at The People’s Theatre.