Naima Khan reviews the agitprop musical that is to be the last show at the current Arcola building.
The Cradle Will Rock at Arcola Theatre is an example of the way directors like Mehmet Ergen can turn what could be an entertaining, phrenic snack into an absorbing, bold belter of a show. Marc Blitzstein's script, first produced in 1937, has always been sharp and witty but Arcola Theatre's production can boast perfect pace, clever lighting and a fantastic cast. Where its cynicism could be timeworn, it instead displays a sad poignancy. Where it could be sentimental, it's funny. And where it could be idealistic, it's knowing.
In Steeltown, Mr Mister (a wonderfully imposing Aaron Shirley) is buying up every sector of society; newspapers, the Church, universities, arts, music, you name it. Civilians as well as institutions fall foul of the power his money allows him. His ideals shout over any other and those that threaten his sly but unquestionable voice are silenced. Meanwhile, lefty Larry Foreman rallies the unions and shows a moll that everyone solicits like she does. He reminds us at a time of protests and debate that the spirit of defiance is still something to be celebrated. His rousing songs are powerful and well executed by a cheeky, resolute Chris Jenkins. Sadly they fall on a tough crowd.
The contemporary audience for this play might be a little impassive about unions with the continuation of strikes. But as artists and venues feel the pinch and the effects of unregulated capitalism continue to reverberate, The Cradle will Rock is still a stirring production.
There is stand-out acting from Adey Grummet who imbues Mrs Mister with the cheery bite of a motherly villain. Expect also to be blown away by Josie Benson who reprimands the doctor disgracing her brother with his bought diagnosis.
Sympathy comes in small doses as it's only Harry Druggist, the store owner whose son's inconvenient conscious is the one sliver of real humanity displayed in a calculated world. In this sense, despite a very different audience, this beautifully sung-through production proves The Cradle Will Rock means much the same now as it did when it was first produced.
Read my interview with director Mehmet Ergen here.
The Cradle Will Rock Runs at Arcola Theatre until 18th December.
Photo Credit: Robert Workman
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