Reader Reviews
Blackwater Angel (Finborough, Inner London)
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 | The Finborough continues its impressive run with the UK premier of Blackwater Angel by Irish playwright/director Jim Nolan which was first performed at The Abbey Theatre in Dublin in 2001. Based on a true story and set in Nolan's native Waterford in 1666, Blackwater Angel tells the story of Valentine Greatrakes, a former Puritan soldier with estates in Ireland who became famous for his power to heal by touch. After a brief introductory scene the story takes off from Greatrakes return from a healing tour in England where although healing many he is clearly shaken by the reaction of those who accused him of being a charlatan. Treason is even mentioned. It quickly transpires that he has lost 'the gift' and what follows is a deep, contemplative tale of inner turmoil, self-doubt, redemption and ultimately acceptance. Nolan, although more well known for his contemporary work in Ireland (The Salvage Shop, Moonshine and his latest work Red Star to be performed at The Abbey Theatre later this year) has clearly poured his heart into this historical piece and done his homework. No doubt originally written with a larger performance space in mind this production would have benefited from a slightly larger venue if only for the manoeuvrability of the excellent cast. That said, the production transfers beautifully to the intimacy of the Finborough. In discussion with those who saw the original production at The Abbey they all agreed without exception that this intimacy makes for a superior production. Intimate and small, however, the cast was not. The magnificent Sean Campion (Stones In His Pockets in the West End and Broadway, The Cosmonaut’s Last Message at the Donmar and more recently The Quare Fellow at The Oxford Playhouse and the Tricycle and soon to be seen in Frank McGuinness' adaptation of Racine's Phaedra at the Donmar) dominates proceedings from beginning to end. Ably matched and supported by among others the raspished voiced Fiona O’Shaughnessy (recently seen in The Shaughraun at the Albery); Catherine Walker (recent Irish Times Best Actress winner); Tony nominee Kevin Colson; and a standout debut from newcomer Laura Piper. For those who like their theatre flavoured with Shakespearian and Greek tragedy this is a real treat. Well worth a visit. - 86.140.214.231) | 08 Mar 06 |
