Cast

Synopsis

In a cell somewhere in the Middle East lie Edward, Michael and Adam, shackled, helpless, facing an uncertain future. They write imaginary letters, they crack jokes, they relive horse races and tennis matches through all-action commentaries, they make imaginary films, they exercise, they hide their fear – and time stumbles on. This powerful play moves you to tears’and laughter whilst exploring the inner strengths upon which ordinary people draw.

Directors Notes

A trio of men, taken hostage, in vile conditions, chained and forbidden contact with the outside world – this is the starting point of this powerful play. With a lesser playwright this situation might have been presented as a bleak, morose and nihilistic drama, but McGuinness creates a drama of suffering humanity that is uplifting and positive. He enables us to witness the might of the human spirit, of people “living” at the edge of existence; out of despair and deprivation come laughter and survival tactics that beggar belief. The play never descends into morbidness but creates the qualities to lift the observer to great emotional heights as they share the characters’ vicissitudes. A play full of tears and laughter, a play that should affect the audience illuminating the strength and weaknesses of mortal man – a play that lifts the human spirit – a play for our time – perhaps for all time – Someone Who’ll Watch Over Me.