The upcoming performance of John Godber's The Highwayman at Queens Hall is more than just a theatrical event; it's a cultural phenomenon that promises to captivate audiences with its unique blend of historical drama and contemporary commentary. This play, touring the country this autumn, offers a fresh perspective on the classic outlaw story, and it's set to leave a lasting impression on theatergoers.
One of the most intriguing aspects of The Highwayman is its ability to bridge the gap between the past and the present. Set in a historical context, the play cleverly addresses issues that still resonate with modern audiences. Matheea Ellerby, who plays multiple characters, including Molly May, highlights this aspect, stating, "The thing that’s a bit different about The Highwayman is that it is a historical piece. I think it is quite interesting how we tackle some of the issues of the modern day from within a different historical context. The issues that were relevant then are still relevant now."
In my opinion, this is what makes the play so compelling. By setting the story in a historical era, Godber is able to explore contemporary themes through a unique lens. The play's focus on social disparity and defiance, for instance, is a powerful commentary on the state of politics and society today. As Dylan Allcock, who plays multiple roles including Tate Wilkinson and Lord Percy, notes, "When you think of politics now, when they say, 'What’s the biggest thing that comes up on the doorstep?', they talk about the cost of living, don’t they? The Highwayman looks at the lengths that people will go to when they are desperate and feel like they are not being served by the state or by the government."
What makes this particularly fascinating is how the play engages with theatrical devices from various eras. This allows for the creation of big comedic, archetypal, histrionic characters that we can have great fun with, as Allcock explains. But it's not just about the entertainment value; the play is also a vehicle for social commentary. Godber taps into ongoing problems that never really get fixed, giving a voice to the people who are on the fringes and have been forgotten.
The cast members, including Emilio Encinoso-Gil, who plays John Swift, offer a glimpse into the world of The Highwayman. Encinoso-Gil promises a whirlwind of a journey filled with laughs, social commentary, romance, action, and beautifully arranged songs by Dylan Allcock. "I think that The Highwayman is a really good piece of ensemble theatre that will take audiences on a wild ride," he says.
The play's tour this year features a three-actor cast, a reduction from previous productions, which brings a new dynamic to the show. Encinoso-Gil notes, "Having a different number of cast members will bring a new and fresh dynamic to the show. There have also been a few tweaks to the script since the first iteration of the play, so it will be exciting to see what new changes come with this version of the show."
In my view, the reduced cast size is a strategic move that will enhance the intimacy of the performance. With just three actors on stage, the audience will be immersed in the world of the play, feeling the energy and passion of the characters. This is a far cry from the traditional four-actor cast, and it promises to be a unique and challenging experience for both the actors and the audience.
The play's ability to engage with theatrical devices from different eras is another fascinating aspect. By drawing on the past, Godber is able to create a rich and layered narrative that speaks to the present. This is a testament to the playwright's skill and creativity, and it's a reminder of the enduring power of theatre to reflect and shape our understanding of the world.
In conclusion, The Highwayman is more than just a play; it's a cultural event that promises to captivate and challenge audiences. With its unique blend of historical drama and contemporary commentary, the play is a must-see for anyone interested in the power of theatre to reflect and shape our understanding of the world. So, if you're in the area, be sure to catch it at Queens Hall on October 28 and 29. You won't be disappointed.
