16 Jul Living Quarters by Brian Friel
Directed by Andrew Hilton
17 September – 03 October 2015
Tobacco Factory Theatres and Shakespeare at the Tobacco Factory co-production
Production Photos © 2015 Camilla Adams
An ordinary army officer suddenly becomes a hero in middle age. He returns in triumph from service with the UN to his battalion base in Donegal, to his family and to his young second wife. But a day of celebration will soon turn to tragedy.
The story is fascinatingly told as a perpetual reconstruction, presided over by a master of ceremonies, referred to only as ‘Sir’. The characters break from the narrative to plead with him to allow them to alter the course of events, but he ensures they follow on remorselessly to the moment that changed all their lives.
This captivating play, from one of the greatest of European playwrights, has only ever been professionally performed once in England before, when it was directed by Andrew Hilton for Show of Strength in Bristol over 20 years ago.
CAST
Chris Bianchi Sir
Simon Armstrong Commandant Frank Butler
Nina Logue Helen Kelly
Hayley Doherty Miriam Donnelly
Craig Fuller Ben
Martha Seignior Tina
Joe Hall Father Tom Carty
Eoin Slattery Charlie Donnelly
Rose O’Loughlin Anna
PRODUCTION
Director Andrew Hilton
Set & Costume Designer Angela Davies
Production Manager Nic Prior
Lighting Designer Matt Graham
A Brian Friel theatrical treasure revealed in this devastating tale of a family tragedy ... Director Andrew Hilton displays his usual mastery of ensemble playing: the pleasure expressed in the interaction between members of the cast is contagious and the Tobacco Factory’s in-the-round seating provides just the right sense of over-heated intimacy that the play demands.
* * * *
The Arts Desk
Director and cast present this modern myth with astonishing realism.
Bristol 24/7
Production Images by Camilla Adams.
