The Caretaker - The Reviews

Fortunately we don't have to go all the way to Sidcup to get the papers (that will make sense once you have seen or know the show) press reviews are available online so here is the round-up so far for The Caretaker.

Matthew Rixon's disturbingly docile Aston is a brilliant portrait of the horrors inflicted by a supposedly civilised state. 4 stars. THE GUARDIAN Read more here...

There is also plenty of really good humour that got plenty of laughs at the reviewed performance. Overall, the Octagon has created quite a compelling production of this difficult play, one of Pinter's most famous works. BRITISH THEATRE GUIDE. Read more here...

All in all however, this is the Octagon roaring back on form, and another triumph for Babych in his final season. When Pinter is done this well, it continues to enthrall, fascinate, and trigger debate. The man himself would, doubtless, be thrilled. WHAT'S ON STAGE Read more here...

If you're already familiar with this work you'll probably either love or loathe it. However, this illuminating production, directed by Mark Babych, could well change any negative opinions about this contemporary masterpiece. It certainly did for me. MANCHESTER EVENING NEWS. Read more here...

Mark Babych has done a sterling job directing this production, proving just what a tough act he will be to follow. The BOLTON NEWS. Read more here...

In the intimacy of the Octagon, and amidst the claustrophobic clutter of Richard Foxton's stage design, it is performed in the perfect setting. LANCASHIRE EVENING POST. Read more here...

And here's the review from Clitheroe Advertiser. No link I am afraid but here it is in its entirety:

Harold Pinter’s innovative play, The Caretaker, first produced in 1960, marked an important point in twentieth century British drama, moving it in a completely new direction. It is one of those plays that anyone truly interested in the development of drama should see. That said, it is not an easy play to watch.

The dysfunctional characters, the enigmatic, repetitive dialogue and the lack of virtually all of the conventions of a ‘well-made play’ and the lack of a coherent plot, make it challenging. It is not comfortable to watch the brain damaged Aston (Matthew Rixon), the bad tempered, manipulative tramp Davies (Paul Webster) and the mercurial Mick (Jeff Hordley) go through a series of pointed and pointless exchanges.

The strong cast keep the audience gripped and particular praise must go to Matthew Rixon. His monologue in which he recounts his experience of mental illness and its treatment is spell-binding. He is helped by some excellent lighting effects by lighting designer Brent Lees. Richard Foxton’s design creates a wonderful sense of the clutter and sense of failure in the dingy room.

Director Mark Babych gives the Octagon another fine production, a worthy tribute to mark the death of Pinter last year. The Octagon’s next production is Looking for Buddy, a jazz musical by Alan Plater set on Tyneside.

This production is undoubtedly a resounding success, and one which, I’m sure, Harold Pinter would have been proud to have his name attached to. THE PUBLIC REVIEWS. Read more here...

This is an excellent production of a modern classic with exemplary acting all round, but hurry up and book because you only have three weeks to catch it. UK THEATRE. Read more here...

Thought and care taken with Pinter’s play. REVIEWSGATE. Read more here...