Review: Gangs of New York

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IsrRakzfvhU

Review: Gangs of New York

Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre – 25-07-24 by Jamie Griffiths
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The setting for Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre’s rendition of Gangs of New York couldn’t have been more perfect. The summer evening was balmy, the atmosphere was alive with anticipation, and the weather itself seemed to conspire to make the night magical. This annual event, presented by Chester’s Storyhouse Theatre, is a real asset for the City of Chester and never disappoints. This year’s production stood out as a true highlight.

Kieran Lynn’s adaptation of the classic tale, inspired by Herbert Asbury’s vivid account of the notorious Five Points neighborhood in lower Manhattan, is well-paced and flows seamlessly. The minimalist staging was surprisingly effective, focusing the audience’s attention squarely on the actors and their compelling performances. The sparse set design, combined with the natural open-air backdrop, created a sense of authenticity and immediacy that pulled the audience right into the heart of the drama.

John Young’s direction was engaging, making brilliant use of the round theatre space. The cast’s performances were nothing short of mesmerizing. Each actor brought depth and intensity to their roles, making the characters of the Five Points come alive with a raw energy that was both thrilling and terrifying. The ensemble work was particularly noteworthy; the dynamics between the characters felt organic and real, capturing the chaotic spirit of the era with every movement and gesture.

Oisín Thompson as John Morrissey.

Oisín Thompson delivered a passionate, captivating, and energetic performance as John Morrissey. His portrayal captured the essence of a man torn between his violent past and his aspirations for a better future. The physicality and emotion he brought to the role made his character’s journey compelling and believable.

James Sheldon as Bill The Butcher

James Sheldon’s portrayal of Bill The Butcher was nuanced and expertly performed. His performance was bold and authoritative, making him a formidable presence on stage. Though he may be the villain of the piece, his motives are clear, and his asides to the audience provided some of the funniest moments of the play, all without ever breaking character. His ability to elicit both fear and laughter showcased his range and depth as an actor.

Yolanda Ovide as Suzie Smith

Yolanda Ovide’s Suzie was delivered with compassion and fire. Her decision to flee the life she knew and make her marriage to John one of integrity and ambition was convincing. Ovide’s portrayal was integral to making the rags-to-riches plot convincing, bringing her character full circle. Her performance added a layer of emotional depth, making Suzie’s struggles and triumphs resonate with the audience.

Lucas Batton & Jenny Murphy

Lucas Batton’s performance as Lew drew many laughs, not least for the various Lancashire and Irish jokes. His comic timing in scenes was heartwarming and provided much-needed levity amidst the drama. In addition, his star-crossed lovers plotline with the fiery Katie, played by Jenny Murphy, offered extra depth to the production. Murphy’s spirited portrayal of Katie added to the rich tapestry of characters, making their romantic subplot both touching and engaging.

The musical numbers by Me+Deboe set the theme and era nicely, with some smart use of period instruments. These moments helped swiftly change the tone of the piece, enhancing the storytelling with a delightful blend of period authenticity and modern flair. The music not only provided a backdrop but also became a character in its own right, underscoring the emotional and narrative beats of the story.

Overall, the Grosvenor Open Air Theatre’s Gangs of New York is a masterful adaptation that respects the source material while bringing it to life in a vibrant, dynamic way. The combination of stellar performances, thoughtful direction, and the enchanting open-air setting made for a night of theatre that was both thrilling and unforgettable. Chester’s Storyhouse Theatre has once again demonstrated its ability to produce top-tier theatrical experiences. If you have the chance to see this production, don’t miss it—it’s a true gem in the summer’s theatrical calendar.

Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre’s rendition of Gangs of New York runs from Fri 26 July–Sat 31 August 2024 – get details from the official site HERE.