Hansard is a sharp, fast-paced play by English playwright Simon Woods. Lively and bitingly witty, it still delivers a devastating message that feels just as urgent today as when it is set.
The story unfolds in 1988, the year Margaret Thatcher’s controversial Section 28 legislation was passed. It was a week of national upheaval in the UK as the act sought to “prohibit the promotion of homosexuality,” in direct response to a children’s book, Jenny Lives with Eric and Martin, which introduced young readers to different kinds of families. Its introduction ignited fierce protests and unrest across the country.
The play follows Conservative MP Robin Hesketh and his liberal wife Diana, whose ideological sparring is a demonstration on how politics can invade our homes and corrode even the closest bonds. The scene is set on a summer morning. Robin returns from parliament to his Cotswold home of thirty years, where Diana, hungover from a night on the gin, greets him amid the chaos of foxes tearing up his prized lawn and garden. What begins as a razor-sharp, playful exchange quickly darkens, as Diana challenges Robin’s defence of Section 28. In minutes, their banter spirals into something raw and searing, unearthing old wounds and unleashing devastating truths.
This is a remarkable production. It’s a true marathon for its two leads, Grant Malcolm and Suzannah Churchman. Across nearly two hours without intermission, their performances never falter. Together with director Barry Park, they masterfully balance biting humour with heartbreaking vulnerability, pulling the audience from raucous laughter into hushed, breath-held silence as the play drives towards its shattering conclusion.
The set design is thoughtful, working seamlessly with the flow of the play, and the cast is supported by a great team behind the scenes. Tarek Jabado is the Stage Manager, and Andre Beidatsch is the Assistant Stage Manager. Lighting design is by Mark Nicholson, and the costume design by Merri Ford.
Hansard is currently showing at the Garrick Theatre in Guildford and runs until October 11.
To book tickets to Hansard, please visit https://www.taztix.com.au/event/garricktheatre/.
