The Cripple of Inishmaan Lace Market Theatre Review

We went to see The Cripple of Inishmaan at The Lace Market Theatre, 22nd June, in Nottingham.

The Cripple of Inishmaan by Martin McDonagh is about a remote Irish island, and tells the story of people around Cripple Billy, set in the 1930s. The play is mainly a comedy, with light touches from the various members of the community you meet. However, at times it is sad and reflective. You don't really know when the twists and turns will leave you crying or laughing,  and reflective, where from today's perspectives it sometimes seems to articulate out-dated perceptions of disability.

The production was overall good. The set made good use of the stage, being able to transform from cafe/shop, to port/boat yard and a cinema sequence. All very believable and helped set the stage.

Most of the cast were good, with very good performances from Phil McGough who played Billy, and Linda Croston who played the drunken Mammy. At times though, the Irish accent meant it was not always easy to hear some people. And one or two members of the cast acted without looking towards the audience, eg Josh Curran who played Bartley.

One other comment - would scene setting music before the play and in the interval help?

Overall, well staged, good set and props, good acting by and large.

Robert Dixon 27th June 2010
 
Posted by: Robert Dixon on 27 June 2010