Crucible Theatre, Sheffield – until 23rd February 2019
Reviewed by Charleigh Christmas
5*****
Githa Sowerby, author of Rutherford and Son, is having a revival. I was aware of this before coming to see the show, but I had no expectations about what I was going to be seeing. I was blown away!
The story, although written in 1912, seems very relevant in modern times. Set around a family living in fear of their oppressive bullying father Rutherford played by Own Teale, who’s sole concern is the business he’s built from the ground up.
We watch as Rutherford’s three children are ground down under the pressure. First we have John (Ciaran Owens) and his wife Mary (Danusia Samal) a working girl from the south. Returned to the home of his father after trying to strike out alone, with their young son in tow.
Richard (Esh Alladi) who has been bullied so much by his father, he has turned to religion as an answer.
Then there is Janet (Laura Elphinstone) an old maid at 36, with no love prospects and forced to do the bidding of Rutherford all she wants is to find a man of her own.
Finally there is Aunt Ann (Marian Mcloughlin) an ever present woman who has an unwavering faith in Rutherford.
This play had an undertone of the women’s rights movement, as we see women being constantly put down and made to be in their traditional place. This is challenged later on by Mary (Danusia Samal) who has a more business minded look at life and will do anything to protect her son.
The acting was phenomenal. I found myself being completely sucked in by the scenes between Teale and Elphinstone in particular. The serious nature of the play was cut through with some genius comedic timing by Ann who had the entire audience chuckling along. Mrs Henderson’s (Lizzy Roper) scene was one I was telling someone about after the play as being one that I really feel like we got to see the unflinching coldness of Rutherford. And Martin (Brian Lonsdale) did and amazing job of driving the story forward and again making us feel a real hatred towards Rutherford.
Set in the Living room of the Rutherford’s home, with a foreboding portrait of Grandfather Rutherford watching over them. I think the set was perfect, very in theme and with the right amount of colour. I particularly liked the lit fire the people were prone to gather round on a cold northern night.
The play did end a bit abruptly for me, and I was expecting more of a resolution, but I think the way it ended was perfect, leaving it with the right amount of ambiguity. I would definitely recommend watching this one if you get the chance.