Venue: Hull Truck Theatre

Dates: Until Saturday February 16

Review: Julia Pattison

AS part of his research before writing the play, On A Shout, Dave Windass spoke to many RNLI members and Spurn Point residents.

Working closely with director Gareth Tudor Price and Designer Richard Foxton on various drafts of the play, On A Shout was finally launched; a fitting tribute to the RNLI members and their families.

The lifeboat was represented by actor interpretation, lighting and sound effects – we used our imaginations, and almost felt sea-sick, so convincing was the drama.

On A Shout is largely a memory play, brought to life brilliantly by the cast of five. Edward Peel gave a poignant, passionate performance as George, a man who had been doing his dangerous job for nigh on forty years. We shared his highs and lows, his hopes and fears, empathising with his reluctance to let go of a way of life.

It was hard to believe that this was Richard Standing and Laura Doddington’s Hull Truck debut, so at ease and convincing were they in their various roles.

Newcomer, Matthew Stathers, also made an impression, showing he was just as comfortable with comedy, (Dobbo’s timed dressing scene was hilarious) as he was with portraying heartfelt emotion as Barry, George’s father.

Hull Truck veteran, David Barrass, was the fifth member of this talented crew; he had the audience just where he wanted, particularly when playing ‘superman’ Ronald Rix.

Don’t miss the boat – this is definitely a play to shout about!