The Irish Giant

John Hunter (Brian
Logan) is a surgeon obsessed with dissection; always on the look for
a new specimen to add to his collection, he tries to kidnap – and
kill – Charles, with help from Mr Harrison (Alex Murdoch). The giant, however, is not ready to die. A deeply faithful, if somewhat simple, man, he is worried about his soul and does not want his body used for
dissection.

Cartoon de Salvo has a
reputation for devised work that combines story-telling, live music
and improv; it also call itself the UK’s
number one contemporary folk theatre company. This production is
certainly witness to the team’s ability to combine different art
forms, including, in this case, animation (by Rebecca Hurst) that,
projected at different points in the production, adds an interesting
fairytale feel to the narrative. There is also play of illusion,
light and shade in the atmospheric setting of the Vault at Southwark
Playhouse. And the folk sensibility is present in the melodic tunes
that the three cast members (and company founders) sing with great
charm and vocal ability.

There is no doubt about
the versatility of this company and its ability to charm and
entertain. However, this 90-minute production feels awkwardly long
as the many scene changes are at times poorly executed and hinder the
flow. There is a sense that the improvisation process got in the way
of the performers, who are sloppy during exits and entrances and as
they move props to and fro. Especially at the start, it all looks
rather messy. This is also the case when the three performers double
up for various secondary characters.

All this aside,
The Irish Giant makes an intriguing production for lovers
of storytelling and unusual devised theatre, and is another strong
addition to Southwark Playhouse’s rich and varied season.