Thank goodness that companies like the Improbable theatre still manage to get funding support or everyday theatre would be a duller place. The "Hanging Man" is a most unlikely title to draw patrons away from their televisions, but for those that did it was all worthwhile for they experienced something imaginative and different. Some were not sure what they were witnessing and others relished what was presented to them. The stage had a marvellous set designed in part by the artistic directors Phelem McDermott, Lee Simpson, Julian Crouch and designer Phil Eddolls and showed a cathedral under construction, with the company's Careful Assistant Tim Preece being seen in the building works going about his work as if he were a workman. Imaginative trap doors opened and closed neatly to produce what was needed for the plot of the play. The set colours were just right and held the skilful lighting of Colin Grenfell, who almost managed to hide his scaffolding.

The story's origins were from folk lore and myths that surrounded Edward Braff, architect. The play could be called the death of an architect, but death did not want to take him so he hung around and was accredited with various miracles, for no one seemed to die while he was doing it. Richard Katz takes the part of the architect Braff who spent most of the play hanging from a noosed rope not knowing what his fellow actors were going to do or say, as the play was partly adlibed. Lisa Hammond, Nick Haverson, Catherine Marmier, Rachael Spence and Ed Woodall were the ones who kept him hanging around as they went about their various parts. The plot dipped into humour and drama with the audience sometimes not knowing which was which. Choreography was used to chuckle at death as was the singing of "I'm leaving tonight" to the hanging man. A real mix of not knowing and muddle which hung together beautifully.

This was an enjoyable night at the theatre, something not always expected from a new play. The audience clapped and brought the cast back twice to acknowledge their applause. Go to see it and see what it means to you. © BA

“The Hanging Man” is in Leeds from the 19th April until the 10th May, 2003.