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Hangover Square
Based on the novel by Patrick Hamilton Adapted by Fidelis Morgan Director: Gemma Fairlie Finborough Theatre 9 July – 2 August, 2008
ta
A review by Fiona Doyle for EXTRA! EXTRA!
The Finborough Theatre’s reputation for rediscovering forgotten work from the 19th and 20th centuries is evident in their current production. Aptly set in Earl’s Court, Fidelis Morgan’s adaptation of Patrick Hamilton’s little-known novel, Hangover Square, focuses on the love-struck George Harvey Bone and his desperate attempts to win Netta, the woman he loves. As the manipulative Netta administers a series of bitter rejections, George begins to crumble and his unrequited love transforms into something more sinister and dangerous. This is a fine production with great energy and commitment, infused with an overall sense of effortless style and skill. Gemma Fairlie’s direction is commendable. Her subtle yet acute sensitivity to detail and rhythm enables the impressive cast of actors to maximise on their performance skills. It is refreshing to see this group working together both physically and vocally, bringing a real sense of ensemble play to the evening. Overall, the designers have combined forces to create a very sensual and satisfying piece of theatre. Steve Mayo’s sound design not only utilises the Finborough’s technical resources but also the performers themselves. Indeed, some of the most memorable moments occur when the cast create the atmosphere through body and voice alone. Alex Marker takes full advantage of the space on offer. His delightfully detailed, compact set is flexible and multi-functional while presenting the occasional understated surprise that adds to the surreal nature of the piece. Trevor Wallace provides some essential lighting that offers clarity on emotional states, place and time, while also using actors to create certain scenarios through lighting effects made by torches for example. All seven actors produce admirable performances. Clare Calbraith and Caroline Faber share the roles of Netta and what appears to be George’s alter-ego or conscience. The simple yet clever device of swapping roles serves to heighten the feeling of disorientation and confusion that the central character is clearly experiencing while really enhancing the surreal inherent within the piece. Matthew Flynn invests his role with vigour and passion and Gyuri Sarossy and Antony Eden pair up to steal the show during a wonderful moment, reminiscent of an old-school, variety hall entertainment act. Overall, Hangover Square is a captivating piece of theatre that deserves a successful run. For anyone who’s interested, the novel was published in 1941 by Constable & Robinson. This information may come in useful as having seen the stage adaptation, the novel might really be worth the read.
Finborough Theatre Box Office: 0844 847 1652 Tickets: £13 (£9 concession) Designer: Alex Marker Sound: Steve Mayo Lighting: Trevor Wallace Movement: Anna Morrissey Costume: Penn O’Gara Cast:
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