Bold Vision in Jim Cartwright's "Road" at the Royal Exchange

Selina Cartmell’s direction of Jim Cartwright’s play "Road" at the Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester presents a striking interpretation that transcends traditional theatrical boundaries. The production utilizes the full height of the in-the-round space, incorporating ladders and upper levels to create a dynamic performance environment. The set design by Leslie Travers enhances this immersive experience, with elements scattered throughout the venue, allowing actors to engage with the audience even before the show begins. This approach invites spectators to consider themselves as part of the community depicted in the play, which is set in 1986 Lancashire.

The Guardian

"Road" explores themes of neglect and poverty during Margaret Thatcher's era, reflecting the struggles of working-class life. Cartmell’s production maintains the play's original bitterness while infusing it with a sense of urgency and vibrancy. The cast, including Johnny Vegas as Scullery, delivers performances that oscillate between humor and raw emotion, embodying characters who grapple with their dreams and harsh realities. The fragmented structure of the play, characterized by a series of monologues and interactions, allows for impressive individual performances but may challenge audience engagement with the overarching narrative.

The Guardian

The pre-show and interval performances, featuring sketches of everyday life, serve to deepen the audience's connection to the material. This innovative strategy not only excites viewers but also extends the play's commentary on community and shared experience. As spectators observe these vignettes, they are prompted to reflect on their own lives and the societal issues presented on stage.

The Guardian

While the production is praised for its exuberance and theatricality, some critics note that the play's fragmented nature can detract from emotional investment. The collage-like format may impress with its individual performances but risks leaving the audience feeling detached from the characters' struggles. This duality highlights the challenge of balancing artistic ambition with narrative coherence.

The Guardian

Cartmell’s vision for "Road" has been described as both ambitious and provocative, aiming to resonate with contemporary audiences while honoring the original text. The Royal Exchange Theatre has positioned this production as a centerpiece of its 50th anniversary season, showcasing a commitment to innovative storytelling.

The Guardian

• “The intrusion excites the audience and extends the playwright’s slice-of-life portrait.” — The Guardian

The Guardian

• “Cartmell’s actors, including a pre-recorded Tom Courtenay as a man crippled by nostalgia, would effortlessly pass such an audition, but the fragmentary structure makes it easier to be impressed than to care.” — The Guardian

The Guardian

• “None of this diminishes the sourness of Cartwright’s play, written in anger at the neglect and poverty of Thatcher’s Britain, but more bitter than politically articulate.” — The Guardian

The Guardian

In summary, Selina Cartmell's interpretation of "Road" at the Royal Exchange Theatre stands out for its boldness and immersive qualities, while also sparking discussions about the effectiveness of its fragmented narrative structure.

The Guardian