HANSARD, at Wokingham Theatre in September, is a gripping political drama – a must-see for anyone wanting to engage in a thoughtful evening’s viewing.
Masterfully performed by Murray Lindo and Caro Tasker, this intellectually stimulating, tense, funny, and moving story takes the audience on a rollercoaster ride of the late 1980s.
But it’s not just a political examination.
It’s very much a personal one too, as fictional Tory politician Robin and his wife, Diana, pick through the debris of their marriage, trying to rediscover the foundations of their first love.
Clause 28 has been passed three or four days previously, and having been interviewed on Radio4’s Any Questions defending the Government’s stance, Robin returns to his Cotswolds home, where waiting for him, and appalled by the decision, is Diana.
“It’s a nice house they live in, but it’s not really loved, it’s not warm and the garden is being slowly destroyed – a perfect metaphor for their marriage,” said director Jerry Radburn.
“There’s real affection between the couple, but at the same time a huge dissonance in their political views and a mountain of emotional baggage to deal with.
“It’s beautifully written, with wit, and a deep understanding of the human condition.
“I loved this play the first time I read it.
“It’s funny, it’s moving, and it blends so many things that make for a good night out.”
Throughout the drama, there’s a constant battle between the head and the heart, as opposing ideas about how to run the country, how to bring up children – how to face life – fly back and forth across the room.
Long-held secrets are revealed as a result, along with deeply held fears of loss and rejection.
But all the while, there’s compassion, and a strand of hope that love can be rekindled.
“These are absolutely superb actors,” said Jerry.
“They’ve put in a huge amount of work to make this such a professional production, and I’ve enjoyed working with them both so much.”
There will be much to discuss after each performance, once audience members have finished wiping their eyes (it’s not a bad idea to take a pack of tissues).
And don’t be put off by trigger warnings – the show is a riveting watch.
Just 90 minutes long, without interval, it’s beautifully written, and packed with all the ingredients of a fascinating and memorable night out.
“Audiences will feel enriched by it at the end, having joined this fascinating pair in their search for a middle way,” said Jerry.
September visitors to Wokingham Theatre can expect a stimulating, amusing, and moving evening, packed with interesting arguments and a human interest story.
Hansard can be seen there, from Thursday, September 10 through to Saturda, September 19, with the exception of Sunday.
Performances are at 7.45pm, and tickets costing £17 are available from: wokinghamtheatre.org.uk
