Director: Garry Hynes
Reviewer: Sara Jackson
It’s not often that I struggle to find bad things to say about a performance but Druid’s latest production is one of the few that leaves me with very little to say. This is a must see! The Cripple of Inishmann is Martin McDonagh’s follow up to the Lennane trilogy and again gives us a view of life in 1930’s Ireland. This time we meet Cripple Billy and his Aunties, who are not really his aunties, and we follow him and his dream to become a movie star.
When he hears the news that a Hollywood movie is being filmed just across the water he seizes his opportunity and tells BabbyBobby that he has TB and only has months live in order to secure passage on a boat. He heads off with dreams of stardom, without telling his aunties where he is going or when he is coming back.
The plot of the story takes many unexpected twists and turns and constantly keeps you on the edge of your seat as we see the effect Cripple Billy’s departure has on the lives of the people left behind. McDonagh’s play is full of irony and pathos and gives a view of Irish life that could leave you almost depressed if it weren’t for the wonderful eccentricity of the characters and the tender and loving relationships that they have when they are behind closed doors. I laughed almost from start to finish as the plot unfolded showing how ludicrous life in difficult situations can be.
No production is without its problems and if there were anything that I could criticise about the piece then it would be the fight scenes. They were tentative to say the least and would have benefited from a bit of commitment. Scene changes were long and drawn out. Leaving the audience sitting in the dark for what felt like an age and slowing the pace of the piece.
However the actor’s performances were enough for all to be forgiven. I should take the time to give special mention to Aarron Monaghan's portrayal of Cripple Billy. It is a brilliantly executed performance, which was physically flawless with dignified emotion.
I would recommend this performance to anybody. It is a passionate and sympathetic telling of a tragic yet beautiful and humorous story.
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