Saint Joan Revival at Citizens Theatre: A Modernist Interpretation of Shaw's Classic
At the Citizens Theatre in Glasgow, a bold new production of George Bernard Shaw's Saint Joan is captivating audiences with its modernist flair and urgent pacing. Directed by Stewart Laing, this Raw Material co-production reimagines Shaw's 1924 play, focusing on the Maid of Orleans' journey from an obscure teenager to a commanding military leader.
Historical Context and Contemporary Relevance
When Shaw's play originally premiered at what is now the Noël Coward Theatre, critics expressed concern that the playwright might use the historical narrative as a vehicle for political commentary. An unnamed critic from the Times noted that Shaw "occasionally delights to criticise the present through the past," expressing weariness with his Fabian Society moralizing. However, upon seeing the production with Sybil Thorndike in the lead role, the critic was relieved to find Shaw had largely adhered to the historical narrative across six scenes, reserving modern commentary for the epilogue.
Now, a century later, director Stewart Laing faces similar speculation. Known for his innovative approach with works like Paul Bright's Confessions of a Justified Sinner, which transformed James Hogg's novel through elaborate theatrical hoaxes, audiences wondered if Laing would similarly deconstruct Shaw's classic. However, Laing's approach proves to be entirely sincere, engaging earnestly with the play's core themes of religious conviction, ecclesiastical power, and youthful rebellion.
A Streamlined and Modernist Adaptation
Laing's production presents a considerably shortened version of Shaw's original text while incorporating camera angles from Shaw's unproduced film adaptation. This modernist reimagining maintains the play's essential narrative while infusing it with contemporary theatrical sensibilities. The production moves at a remarkable pace, with dialogue delivered with urgency and drive that keeps audiences engaged throughout.
Breakout Performance by Mandipa Kabanda
In the titular role, newcomer Mandipa Kabanda delivers a standout performance that matches the production's intensity. She tears through Shaw's dialogue with a speed and conviction reminiscent of Ivo van Hove's acclaimed productions, bringing fresh energy to Joan's transformation from humble beginnings to military leadership. Kabanda's portrayal captures both the character's spiritual conviction and her rebellious spirit, creating a Joan for the modern age.
Innovative Staging and Sound Design
The production features innovative staging elements that enhance its thematic depth. All male characters wear earpieces, suggesting they are syncing their lines to recordings—a visual metaphor that questions the validity of Joan's internal monologue compared to the established voices of authority. This device cleverly underscores the play's exploration of whose voices society validates and whose it dismisses.
Contemporary Epilogue by Adura Onashile
True to Shaw's tradition of contemporary commentary, Laing includes a modern epilogue created by filmmaker Adura Onashile. This concluding film juxtaposes footage of contemporary protesters with powerful images of Kabanda's Joan, culminating in the stirring declaration: "I'd rather be remembered as the girl who set the fire." This bold addition connects Joan's medieval rebellion with modern social movements, ensuring the production's relevance to today's audiences.
While the original Times critic might have disapproved of such contemporary interpolation, Shaw himself would likely have appreciated this continuation of his tradition of connecting historical narratives with present-day concerns. The production runs at Citizens Theatre in Glasgow until February 28 before embarking on a tour that continues through March 21.
