12 Angry Men
by Reginald Rose
We need each other in theatre - audience and actors sharing, since we build the experience together. Our wonderful Pantomime certainly contrasts with the Archway's follow up - 12 Angry Men is best known for our stage production at the Arch 20 years ago. This outstanding play is a drama of power where prejudice is exposed for what it is by reasoned integrity. The inexorable process is convincing. Life is indeed a minor so to speak, the glass often darkens but it is always accurately reflective.
The play is passionate, often angry but ultimately uplifting. For me, as the fortunate director, its greatest quality is its believability, it is a fascinating detective story in a forest of emotions. Perhaps most significantly it is nourished by the audience reaction to 12 diverse personalities locked in a combat where victory is truth. Or is it?
We have an exceptional cast headed by Alex Gear and John Baldwin. This includes newcomers Dick Candelin and Steve Ollis, with Frederick Bull and Adrian Gilbert making a welcome reappearance at the Arch.
Neil Carter is our excellent Stage Manager leading a fine production team.
Now we look forward to you, our audience, sharing our experience.
