When looking at titles at Metro Arts this month, The History Of The Devil, presented by Polymorphic Productions, is one that was of immediate interest to any horror lover, especially when seeing the playwright’s name. Clive Barker is a UK-based, iconic horror writer known for his wit, gritty characters and tackling taboo subjects- and this play, performed at the Metro Arts New Benner Theatre, was no exception.
From the outset, the audience was warned of adult themes, including sexual assault, racism and coarse language. The set was of a bare-bones design, as the story, both geographically and historically, time travelled, so the use of lighting and sound created the atmosphere. They took the audience from the UK to Kenya in believable fashions, and although sometimes the sound obscured voices, the strategy was very effective.
The story revolves around the Devil’s desire to return to Heaven, but he must first face a trial for his actions on Earth. Witness the courtroom drama as Judge Popper, defence attorney Sam Kyle, and chief prosecutor Catherine Lamb engage in a high-stakes legal battle over the fate of the Devil.
Outstanding and charismatic performances came from the cast, but especially from Connor Scoble as the Devil himself and Lisa Hickey as Ms Lamb, the passionate lawyer (among other characters). They made this play fast-moving, funny and enjoyable to watch.
With all actors playing at least two roles, this was a complex, moving feast and the transitions were played flawlessly between scenes, with virtually seamless characters and costume changes. It was hard to believe the high skill level on display, given this was the first showing.
I recommend The History Of The Devil to anyone who is open to delving into the darker themes mentioned to get down and see the History of the Devil. This was an excellently staged, witty play, and you’re in expert hands with this cast and crew.
Dates:- 28th Nov – 16th Dec
Duration:- Approximately 170 minutes, including a 20-minute interval.
Age:- Recommended for ages 15+
Session Dates/Times:-
- Tuesday, 28 Nov 2023, 7:00pm
- Wednesday, 29 Nov 2023, 7:00pm
- Thursday, 30 Nov 2023, 7:00pm
- Friday, 1 Dec 2023, 7:00pm
- Saturday, 2 Dec 2023, 2:00pm MATINEE
- Saturday, 2 Dec 2023, 7:00pm
- Tuesday, 5 Dec 2023, 7:00pm
- Wednesday, 6 Dec 2023, 7:00pm
- Thursday, 7 Dec 2023, 7:00pm
- Friday, 8 Dec 2023, 7:00pm
- Saturday, 9 Dec 2023, 2:00pm MATINEE
- Saturday, 9 Dec 2023, 7:00pm
- Tuesday, 12 Dec 2023, 7:00pm
- Wednesday, 13 Dec 2023, 7:00pm
- Thursday, 14 Dec 2023, 7:00pm
- Friday, 15 Dec 2023, 7:00pm
- Saturday, 16 Dec 2023, 2:00pm MATINEE
- Saturday, 16 Dec 2023, 7:00pm
Coarse Language, Horror, Mature and controversial themes, Morbid Humor, Offensive language, References and depictions of Sexual Assault, Religious themes, Themes of trauma, Violence, Haze/smoke effects, Loud Noises, Strobe Lighting Effects, Please note a lockout period applies. Latecomers may be admitted at a suitable break in the performance.
Photography: Emma Stratton [email protected]
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