Author The Old Vic
Published 16/05/2024
Ahead of our new play The Constituent opening in June, we’re looking at how plays (and sometimes operas) have examined the relationship between the public and their elected officials.
1728 – Satire causes real world consequences in The Beggar’s Opera
One of the longest running productions when it premiered in the 18th century, The Beggar’s Opera by John Gay has since been subject to many adaptations including Bertolt Brecht’s The Threepenny Opera and its well-known hit Mack the Knife.
This popular production originally set out to ridicule the upper classes and Sir Robert Walpole, who is often viewed as the first British Prime Minister. Walpole wasn’t impressed by the production’s satire, however, and he eventually created the Licensing Act of 1737 to censor what could be said about the British government in stage shows. The act was repealed by the Theatres Act 1843 and stage censorship was abolished by the Theatres Act 1968.
1882 – A constituent clashes with the establishment in An Enemy of the People
Originally written by Norwegian playwright and theatre director Henrik Ibsen in 1882, this classic play has been adapted for stage and screen many times.
An Enemy of the People focuses on the conflict between the individual and society. The main character, Dr. Stockmann, takes on the local leadership when he discovers that the town’s baths are contaminated, only to be opposed by officials who prioritise economic interests over public health.
1946 – A politician is a source of hope for a constituent in need in The Winslow Boy
Based on the real-life case of a young naval cadet who was accused of theft in 1910, the play by Terrace Rattigan follows the struggles of the Winslow family as they fight to clear their son’s name.
As the family navigates the legal system and public opinion they enlist the help of Sir Robert Morton, an opposition Member of Parliament, who gives a passionate speech on their behalf in the House of Commons. The play explores themes of justice, integrity, and the relationship between the individual and the state.
2019 – A minister’s martial relationship is affected by policies in Hansard
Based in 1988 Britain, Hansard by Simon Woods follows the events of an evening the country home of fictional Conversative politician Robin Hesketh and his wife, Diana.
As the evening progresses, the couple’s tensions come to the surface with heated debates about the political and social landscape of Britain in the 80s.
2024 – Public office principles are put to the test in The Constituent
Written by Olivier Award winner Joe Penhall, this brand-new play examines the relationship between public service and personal safety in a time when MPs and their private lives are on public display more than ever before.
Set in a constituency office, the play stars BAFTA Award winner Anna Maxwell Martin (Motherland, Line of Duty) as a hard-working opposition backbencher whose ideals of public office are tested by the demands of a man in crisis, played by Tony, BAFTA and Emmy Award winner James Corden (One Man, Two Guvnors, The History Boys).
The Constituent is on stage at The Old Vic from 13 Jun – 10 Aug 2024. Tickets are selling fast, so don’t miss your chance to be the first to see this volatile new play.