Racing Demon, The Crucible
When you think of the church, what comes to mind? Father Ted? An outdated institution, wobbling along with the odd doddery vicar in a village parish, who judges the W.I’s weekly jam competition before tending to his garden?
If so, think again. David Hare’s ‘Racing Demon’ exposes the darker side of the Church of England. Daniel Evans’s direction is flawless: the production is slick, beautifully paced, and the cast are outstanding.
The conflict of beliefs between the elderly, jaded Reverend Lionel and the young, near-fanatical Reverend Tony is compelling, and throws up some chilling questions. What is the Church’s purpose? Should people be converted? Has spirituality been sacrificed for the Church being run like a corporate business?
Hare’s genius comes from weaving these lead-heavy questions into bite-size chunks, using witty dialogue and superb characterisations to bring them to life - but, always ensuring it’s palatable for his audience. We are not offered any firm conclusion; merely a lively insight into religious hypocrisy and the bureaucratic nature of the Church today.
Hare seems to remain faithful to the old adage, ‘Do not judge thy neighbour’. The Church is critiqued, yes – but you are certainly left to make up your own mind about where you stand.
Alice Stride
