REVIEW: THE VERDICT

SALISBURY PLAYHOUSE

This is live theatre at its very best.

The world stage premiere of this powerful courtroom thriller hooks the audience in the first few seconds and holds them spellbound until the compelling finale.

Adapted from Barry Reed’s creative 1980s novel, inspiring a multi-award-nominated 1982 film, this gritty thought-provoking drama makes you feel deeply for the characters and their realistic situations; American and Irish accents and philosophy spot-on.

Set in Boston in 1980, it tells the story of young pregnant mother Debbie Doherty’s horrific hospital “accident” culminating in a rancorous legal battle in the courts.

The narrative is pacy, punctuated by effectively atmospheric Irish music and convincing set design, ranging from lawyers’ offices and bars to a richly impressive county court.

As alcoholically flawed yet passionately determined attorney Frank Galvin, Clive Mantle owns the stage.

And playing his elderly Jewish mentor Moe Katz, Jack Shepherd displays his rich acting experience.

Among a superb large cast, Richard Walsh is outstanding as both oleaginous Boston Bishop Brophy and also pedantically cantankerous Judge Sweeney. And even the minor characters shine.

The show’s brilliantly versatile director and designer Michael Lunney also conveys Eugene, the convivial owner of Meehan’s Bar, as well as the creepy Dr Crowley.

Sub-plots including the Catholic Church’s schools, power, and secrets, combined with conniving medical malpractice, emphasise the exploitation of the disadvantaged.

Yet again, Salisbury Playhouse delivers excellence.

The Verdict runs until Saturday.

Brendan McCusker