Stones In His Pockets @ King’s Theatre, Edinburgh

Lindsay Posner’s Stones In His Pockets is the story of what happens when a major Hollywood production decides to take over a landscape for its own purposes

Review by Sophie Smith | 09 Apr 2019

Set in a small village in rural Ireland, Lindsay Posner’s Stones In His Pockets is the story of what happens when a major Hollywood production decides to take over a landscape for its own purposes. Charlie Conlon and Jake Quinn, played by Kevin Trainor and Owen Sharpe, are extras in this movie industry extravaganza, who are moved and used for the purpose of show business.

Both actors excel in their ability to switch from character to character as they assume those of the movie stars as well as the villagers around them – from the locals in the pub to Aisling the assistant. These impersonations are realised superbly to comic effect. That being said, the jump from character to character can at times be a little fast and confusing, with Trainor’s turns and hair swishes being the most obvious change that can seem slightly too farcical. The number of characters, although well performed, leaves little time for more than a superficial understanding of them, and the effects of the film business on the locals is more obviously stated than subtly realised.

The title alludes to a darker undertone of exploitation, a touchingly poignant point about the show business industry that is an original perspective to take. Yet it is hard to see the full effect of this undertone as the play struggles to build tension in between all of the short scenes that flip between characters. However, it's hard not to empathise with Charlie and Jake given their certain Irish charisma and enthusiasm to tell their own tale and that of those around them. Working with a simple set and small amount of technical effects brings out some greatly comical acting that is nothing if not enjoyable to watch.

With a lot of heart, a great amount of charm, and an original perspective on the glamorisation of Hollywood juxtaposed with the poverty of rural Ireland, Lindsay Posner renders an entertaining piece that relies on only two great actors, some grass and a large black box.


Stones In His Pockets @ King’s Theatre, Edinburgh, run ended