Falcon Theatre is starting off its 2025 with yet another Regional Premiere: Hangmen by Martin McDonagh. Directed by newlyweds Ted Weil and Samantha Joy Weil, this dark comedy takes place in 1965 northern England where the death penalty has just been abolished. Career hangman (and pub owner) Harry Wade has a lot to say about this change; but not everyone keeps his words in confidence.
The Production Team for Hangmen at Falcon Theatre
If you’ve been to Falcon over the years, you will know their sets are not only ideal for their playing space, but genuine works of art. Scenic Design by our husband-and-wife directing team is fantastic. With the action of this story taking place almost entirely in a pub, the attention to detail results in a beautiful set. Every piece is properly “worn” as a familiar neighborhood hangout would be. Kudos to Clint Ibele, who serves as Prop Designer, for the myriad of drinkware used – and for the fact that not every pint contains the same colored liquid! Costume Design by Hannah Richardson is period appropriate and excellently fitted to each and every actor. Perhaps a little more wear on some articles of clothing might have been best, but that can be a tall order.
The Performing Artists
The cast of Hangmen is a large and mighty one. The actors work very well together as an ensemble, but there are some stand-out performances of note.
Matt Flannery portrays Mooney, a shady character who strolls into Harry Wade’s pub one day with ill intentions. Mr. Flannery’s embodiment of this complicated and off-putting character is nothing short of perfection. (Spoiler alert: I quite literally cringed in my seat.) His youthful appearance belies the acumen he exudes in a way only the best of would-be villains possess.
Em Ivanov as Shirley is a force of nature. Not only do they have a solid grip on the Northern England accent (think Sean Bean for reference), their portrayal of teenaged angst is both relatable and, yet, very distinctive.
Gifting the audience with an unforgettable performance as our flawed protagonist Harry Wade is Worley Stidham. It should be noted Mr. Stidham was brought in during tech week to take over the role. While he is certainly younger than the script suggests for the character, neither of these facts read on stage. (Snaps to Mrs. Weil for the touches she added to his appearance to assist.) Mr. Stidham is an incredible talent and locks on to the depiction of this character like a predator to his prey. He does not miss a single beat. His character is seemingly simple, but has a rather complicated arc of emotions. Further, his diction is superb and one can easily hang on every word. Bravo, Mr. Stidham – it would be an unequivocal pleasure to work with you in future!
The Sweet and Lowdown
I was personally eager to see this particular show because it is just about the only script of Martin McDonagh’s lot about which I knew very little. (Full disclosure: he is my favorite playwright.) When eagerness is rewarded with a great payoff, everyone wins. Hangmen is a feast of sharp wit, masterful performances, and gratifying aesthetics. There are two weekends left in its run. Be sure to get your tickets now (the Thursday crowd was close to a sell-out).
Tickets to Hangmen at Falcon Theatre
Hangmen at Falcon Theatre runs now through February 8th. Purchase tickets here.
