‘An Interrogation’ is a gripping, all encompassing drama which will suck you into a thrilling fight for power. Produced by Ellie Keel Productions. A young detective works against the clock as she questions a suspect who looks like the least likely person to be linked to a murder. He’s a devoted son, a successful businessman and a respectable member of society. But as the minutes tick away, the detective starts to suspect that all is not what it seems… Inspired by real events, the debut play from the (Tony Award-nominated co-director of SIX: The Musical) Jamie Armitage is a gripping interrogation drama about power, deception, and our perspectives on the truth.
Bethan Cullinane as Ruth was a masterclass in realism. Her approach to the character was exceptional. Cullinanes’ slow build to her character’s key moments were absolute gold. She hit every single note from her delivery of her text to her physicality. The performance was so naturalistic that it felt like screen acting in its approach, however, the subtlety did not take away from the stage performance. Keep an eye out for this performer.
Jamie Ballard struck a fantastic balance between acting for stage and screen. He included some extremely interesting character choices in terms of physical habits which were a pleasure to watch. His delivery of the text was fantastic, using intonation to sweep you up in the emotional journey of the character. At times some of the outbursts didn’t have enough build, (although it may be an accurate depiction of a sudden loss of composure) the build needs to be stronger on stage to achieve its full impact.
John MacNeill plays his part to perfection, adding a light-hearted element to the performance with well portrayed humour. The character is well developed and makes you wonder if there is something sinister lying beneath the surface of the officer. At times MacNeill’s diction slipped, however, this was very minor and is most likely not something that happens often as for the majority of his performance he delivers dialogue with great clarity and projection.
The camera to focus on the nervous behaviours of both characters was a clever addition to amplify the hidden body language of the characters through the tense moments. This could have been used more. Although the seating of the auditorium is raked, due to the placement of the action being quite static there are times where one of the actors can be blocked off by other audience members. Use of the camera could also eliminate this issue, zoning in on facial expressions and adding to the bigger picture.
The story writing is great in its journey, creating intriguing characters and some unpredictable twists throughout the play. This being said it can be somewhat unrealistic at times, the actors deliver the dialogue well, however, in an age where we are constantly over exposed to the inside minds of criminals and psychopaths the language sometimes took you out of the naturalistic acting. A more thought out map of motivations may achieve a more realistic approach in the writing.
‘An Interrogation’ is a thrilling drama which entices its audience and leaves the audience provoked. It reveals hard truths about deception and the power we have over our own decisions. The two hander is slick and the story will grasp you, leaving you wanting more.
‘An Interrogation’ plays at Old Lab – Summerhall Aug 22nd-27th at various times. Get your tickets here:
Theatre Scotland 
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