Preview: EUTC in The Pillowman

Winner of the 2004 Olivier Award for Best New Play and the 2004/5 New York Drama Critics’ Circle Award for Best New Foreign Play, The Pillowman explores themes such as infanticide, torture, murder and corruption of the state.

Set in a totalitarian state in which a writer, named Katurian, is being questioned by two detectives, his stories, dark and cruel, often depict violence against children and resemble recently perpetrated child murders.

His interrogators, Ariel and Tupolski, believe that Katurian is responsible.

Story upon story is told as the evening progresses, merging fact and fiction as the horrific truth of Katurian and his brother’s past is revealed.

Irish playwright McDonagh is perhaps best known for his critically acclaimed piece In Bruges, however The Pillowman too enjoyed successful runs in London, with the likes of David Tennant starring.

Director Emily Aboud says, “A talented cast of seven bring this show to the Bedlam stage for the first time since 2009 and we aim to push the company’s boundaries with an elaborate combination of set and tech.”

Completing the company are producer Tabitha James, set manager Danya Bradley Barnes, technical manager Ethan Roos, sound designer Alex Greenwald and stage manager Alex Dillon.

Casting finds Sasha Briggs playing Mother, Katurian played by Scott Meenan, Michal by Douglas Clark, Ariel by Esmee Cook and the Girl by Sian Davies.

The Pillowman, Bedlam Theatre, Bristo Place, 7.30pm, 2-6 February, £6.50, bedlamtheatre.co.uk/shows/the-pillowman