The Shiverman

Shiverman follows professionally outcast anthropologist Roy (Paul Mooney) as he desperately tries to save the Okoko tribe’s deep-rooted culture, as yet untouched by the western world.

In a bid to protect this unique heritage, Roy attempts to employ the support of UNESCO, which declares that ‘consideration will be given solely to such intangible cultural heritage as is compatible with existing international human rights instruments’. The people of the ancient world are not affiliated to modern-day thinking, which jeopardises Roy’s application.

James Sheldon’s thought-provoking Shiverman is a powerfully written and intelligent play, which embodies natural dramatic tension and raises troubling questions about ethics, power and attitudinal as well as societal constraints. The story is boldly presented, the writing is provocative, the dialogue is gripping and the play offers a balanced argument, which inspires discussion and debate.

Tom Littler’s skilled direction and inspiring vision is supported by an excellent cast who fulfill the potential of the text. In particular, Benjamin Cawley as island native Tatalau’e, is marvelous. His compelling performance captures the vulnerability of this well-developed, complex character, which becomes an object of our curiosity and affection. Cawley’s performance is closely matched by Mooney, who is brilliant as the world-weary yet passionate anthropologist. Shiverman is an intellectually challenging, original and engaging play that offers fresh and diverse perspectives on a topic that demands attention.

Jo Sutherland