‘The Trials Of Galileo’ is one of the most consummate one-man shows you are likely to see this year. Nic Young’s adaptation of his original TV script starts with Galileo outlining his scientific discoveries, taking us through his trials with the Catholic church, culminating with his reaction to his life’s work being placed in cold storage and contemplation on how he will spend his last years. It is a very human story but also an observation of the conflict between one man’s quest for truth and a great state power with different agendas, which resonates with us today.
Tim Hardy’s representation of Galileo really brings to life one of the greatest scientists. Hardy really looks the part, being the right age, with a full beard and wearing a great, realistic costume - but it is his skills as an actor that make the show so credible. We see Galileo go through a range of emotions as he attempts to reason with his inquisitors, coupled with Hardy providing alternate voices for lawyers against him. It is not surprising to learn that Hardy is on the staff of RADA in addition to having a varied television and film career.
Young’s script aims to bring over the human elements of the story rather a transcript of a courtroom drama. Accordingly, Galileo frequently uses modern phrases and even expletives. This is a device which can fall flat if badly handled but judicious blending of eloquent language and colloquial phrases help us to fully empathise with Galileo rather than see him locked away in another time zone. The telling of history is accurate but the situation is relevant for today. Remember the suicide of scientist David Kelly after his attempts to reveal the truth of government cover-ups?
For a one-man show, there is a generous amount of furniture and props including an impressive telescope and a document-strewn desk. Sound effects are used sparingly but the noise of running water and church bells are very effective. Curiously, a photo backscreen is used for exterior Vatican scenes (which works) but a white backdrop elsewhere. It might have been more consistent for another photo image to have been used for the main courtroom section but that is a minor point.
‘The Trials Of Galileo’ is both an acting masterclass and an interesting lesson from history, skilfully presented with pace and feeling.
Reviewer - John Waterhosue
on - 21.7.22
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