This is Fringe Theatre at its absolute best - gripping, moving, beautifully written and stunningly acted. It is at times like this that I wish I had a dictionary of superlatives to further explain just how brilliant Lorilei is.
The play tells the true story of Lorilei Guillory, a mother who fought (and is still fighting in the US) to prevent the execution Ricky Langley, the man who murdered her six-year-old son.
It is told simply in Lorilei’s own words, beginning with the last day that she spent with her son. Ricky Langley, whom we discover lived near to the Guillory household, was a known paedophile, who had jumped his parole. He was arrested, convicted and sentenced to death. Case closed. However, Lorilei was not closed. After battling against depression and drug addiction, she decided to confront her demons and understand the crime and its perpetrator. She met Langley and decided to fight to save his life.
This powerful drama can be described as a monologue. It is, however a two-hander of simple brilliance. Anna Galvin is Lorilei and gave a performance of such understated virtuosity that she commanded the stage without moving at all. Gareth Farley plays a silent Ricky Langley. His silent presence was a continual chilling reminder of what Lorilei experienced. Both are wonderful wonderful actors.
From the outset I was utterly absorbed and drawn into the turmoil that this mother experienced and I had to struggle with my own emotions as I examined Langley. At times I wanted him to die. However, as Lorilei Guillory says, “The death penalty is nothing but premeditated, legalised murder and I don’t want it to happen in my son’s name.”
If you see anything at this year’s festival, see this. It is a fabulous piece of drama. I only wish I could give it more stars.
5/5
Alexander Donald
