The Pocklington Post - Review: The Guinea Pig Club

Fri 12 Oct 2012

Written by Julia Pattison

Every journey begins with the first step, and this latest production presented by York Theatre Royal shows how a remarkable man, Sir Archibald McIndoe, inspired patients who had little hope of survival, to take not only their first step towards connecting with the outside world, but to make great strides too.

The journey of this excellent play, “ The Guinea Pig Club ”, could so easily have come to an abrupt halt, ( sadly, writer Sue Watkins’s husband, Professor Sid Watkins who had been integral to every aspect of the play’s creation died just after rehearsals had started) but fortunately the momentum of the writer’s passion about the bravery of the medical profession ensured that the story of Sir Archibold McIndoe and The Guinea Pig Club has at last been told.

Director Damian Cruden recognised a good story well told, and took a bold stride of his own by putting this new play on in the main auditorium. His vision, along with the creative team and dedicated cast, has helped to create a fascinating, moving and truly unique piece.

Graeme Hawley gave such a powerful, passionate performance as “Archie ”, that it was impossible not to be moved by his drive, compassion, and philosophical approach towards rehabilitating and healing those young, horrifically disfigured pilots.

There were powerful performances from the actors playing the patients, with Stefano Braschi moving us to tears with his portrayal of Rusty Rushford’s long journey to recovery.

The costumes and set designs( Joanna Scotcher ) all added to the poignancy of the drama, with atmospheric lighting( Richard G Jones ) and music( Christopher Madin )drawing us into the story too.

Although the subject matter was a very serious one, the mood of the play was lightened by some wonderful humour, and mention should be made of Sarah Applewood’s fabulous renditions of well-known war songs, as well as the sparkling dialogue between Archie and Sister O’Donnell ( Fiona Dolman).   

The cast were given a well-deserved standing ovation at the end of the performance; this is a play not to be missed.