The Man Who Had All the Luck, Donmar Warehouse production, Hall for Cornwall

Article by: Linda Camidge is Head of English at Mullion School, Cornwall

Miller’s The Man Who Had All the Luck is unlikely ever to spawn much GCSE coursework, or even inspire the teacher planning next term’s trips to reach for a highlighter pen. It’s billed as a fable, portending minimal action and plenty of didactic talk.

The first half is set in an improbably clean and uncluttered garage. The arrival of a rather attractive car provides romantic interest, but it isn’t exactly Top Gear. There are a large number of men to be distinguished between, and much talk of baseball, war action and small-town entrepreneurism. The accents, doubtless commendably authentic, present a challenge to the audience.

In the second half, however, the pace quickens. The set morphs from garage to domestic interior. There are dramatic lighting effects; less backstory; more comings and goings. The crises faced – by the male characters at least – produce compelling acting. Donmar’s production rises to the challenge provided by the script, and would make worthwhile viewing for A-level students.