Being greeted outside the door of the theatre by a man in a grandfather shirt asking about horses was a little bit different and unexpected. As it turned out, there were other characters pottering about the foyer, one giving out a sepia copy of The Carlow Sentinel, which is a programme of sorts, outlining each of the eight characters, complete with photos, and a piece from the Kilkenny Journal of 1835 of the day Lucinda Sly (Marion Brophy) and John Dempsey (Stephen Casey-Bracken) were both, as it put it, 'launched into eternity', in what turned out to be the last public hanging of a woman. John MacKenna's play is about real people, a reimagining of the events using trial transcripts as a base, taking us into Carlow of 1834 and 1835, and dealing with marital rape and domestic abuse, as well as land and lust, being graphic but not sensationalist. There is an earthiness to the work, directed by MacKenna as well (who also plays three other roles), with a Hired Man feel of people living and working on the land. Lucinda Sly is played well by Brophy, an underlying strength, but showing a woman trapped in ever worsening circumstances, after William Sly moves from being a charmer with wandering hands, to drinking, and then a controlling, violent, disgusting brute. Tom McGrath brings this character along the path very well, in a strong and at times frightening performance, as he maintains control well. In fact, it is a strong cast that ground their characters, even if at times the quality in performances and direction doesn't extend to the costumes, which are a little bit of a mismatch.
The characters rarely leave the stage, but rather sit still, or move facing the back while other scenes continue. The space is filled by wooden boxes and crates that become tables, chairs, walls, or whatever is needed of them, the movement of the pieces worked very well, and smoothly. There is also an audio aspect to it, with wooden boxes hitting the ground, and the sound of voices in a crowd at the beginning. The pace is steady, and while, thanks to Lucinda's opening address, and the Sentinel, we know where it is going, there is a dramatic arc moving to a climax, but it is a slow burner in that effect.
It does draw you in and there is grit to the play that tells this imagined version of a real story well and directly, that is both affecting and disturbing. It is an interesting and mostly well delivered piece, that treats the subject matter with respect but without pulling punches. It is quite self contained and uses the small space with skill, never once feeling cluttered despite the larger cast. Although, the purpose of having the characters wandering the foyer before hand, meeting and greeting, is somewhat more of a mystery.
Runs until 2nd May 2015
Written and Directed by John MacKenna
Lighting Design: Paul Winters
Stage Manager: Mairenn Jacques
Set Construction: Tony Cardiff
Production Company: Mend & Makedo Theatre Co.
Venue: The Civic Theatre, Tallaght