Equus, Alhambra Theatre, Bradford

Article by: Jo Bird teaches English and Drama at Bradford Girls Grammar School

Equus has drawn the crowds around the country and the opening night in Bradford lived up to expectations. Shaffer is a creator of breathlessly bold theatrical moments; perhaps the most iconic (in this his most controversial play) is the indelible vision of shining horse-god Equus, at the consummation which closes the first act. As a piece of stage art the brilliant white and silver image of the boy-made-satyr eclipses an arguably humdrum and intentionally clichéd lead into the psychiatrist’s discoveries. The perfect moment in which a stunning dramatic image represents the clash of ideas and emotions is surely Shaffer’s proof that theatre is “the greatest of the arts”. Technical polish and spectacle aside, acclaimed performances from Simon Callow, Linda Thorson and Alfie Allen perfectly balanced the banal with the tormented … but the horses stole the show. Of course.

Advanced level Drama and Literature student will love it.