The Patriot
a stimulating, masterfully crafted, bold piece of drama which bodes well for the both the Tron and Cleugh
| 10 Jun 2007
On the eve of a Scottish election, in a climate of political change, The Patriot fearlessly confronts long-held Scottish political ideals, questions their motivations and highlights their subjectivity.
The Patriot is the first play to be directed by Gregory Thompson at the Tron, since his appointment to Director in October 2006. He describes it as different from his usual approach in that it's a non-stylised piece of "straight drama." RSAMD-trained Grae Cleugh wrote and also stars in this impressive contemporary political production.
With just one set, the cast manage to grip their audience with clever dialogue and intricate group dynamics. The characters represent four diverse political stances. As Tom Gordon MSP (played by Hilton McRae) rests on his laurels in the latter years of a successful career, everything he believes is challenged and his hopes shattered throughout the course of one evening, with an introduction to Paul Kennedy played by Cleugh. Clashing ideals, regrets and beliefs are all skillfully portrayed in a manner that allows the audience to identify in some way to each, and become embroiled in the struggle which ensues. Juliet Cadzow and Claire Dargo complete the talented foursome as they expertly unravel the intricate plot to a powerful climax.
Cleugh himself advocates the need for plot completion but also desires the audience to have a lasting question impressed upon them. This thought provoking play does exactly that. We leave with the satisfaction of an enjoyable narrative but also an awareness of the reality of the extreme and complex issues that politics creates. The final question that lingers is 'how far should core beliefs be compromised in order to maintain a position that allows the power to influence?'
This is a stimulating, masterfully crafted, bold piece of drama which bodes well for the both the Tron and Cleugh.
The Patriot is the first play to be directed by Gregory Thompson at the Tron, since his appointment to Director in October 2006. He describes it as different from his usual approach in that it's a non-stylised piece of "straight drama." RSAMD-trained Grae Cleugh wrote and also stars in this impressive contemporary political production.
With just one set, the cast manage to grip their audience with clever dialogue and intricate group dynamics. The characters represent four diverse political stances. As Tom Gordon MSP (played by Hilton McRae) rests on his laurels in the latter years of a successful career, everything he believes is challenged and his hopes shattered throughout the course of one evening, with an introduction to Paul Kennedy played by Cleugh. Clashing ideals, regrets and beliefs are all skillfully portrayed in a manner that allows the audience to identify in some way to each, and become embroiled in the struggle which ensues. Juliet Cadzow and Claire Dargo complete the talented foursome as they expertly unravel the intricate plot to a powerful climax.
Cleugh himself advocates the need for plot completion but also desires the audience to have a lasting question impressed upon them. This thought provoking play does exactly that. We leave with the satisfaction of an enjoyable narrative but also an awareness of the reality of the extreme and complex issues that politics creates. The final question that lingers is 'how far should core beliefs be compromised in order to maintain a position that allows the power to influence?'
This is a stimulating, masterfully crafted, bold piece of drama which bodes well for the both the Tron and Cleugh.