REVIEW: Stones In His Pockets
***** [5 stars]
The stage is set in County Kerry, but the charm and complexity of Stones in His Pockets transcend borders. In this revival of the Olivier Award-winning play, directed by Matthew McElhinney (son of the original writer Marie Jones), this new production breathes fresh life into a much-loved classic. Offering a thrilling blend of sharp wit, heartfelt emotion, and pure theatrical magic, it’s a show that will leave you laughing, reflecting, and utterly captivated.
The play follows Charlie Conlon (Gerard McCabe) and Jake Quinn (Shaun Blaney), two Irish locals caught up in the excitement—and absurdity—of being extras in a Hollywood film shot in their small rural village. The premise might seem simple, but what unfolds is a whirlwind of masterful storytelling, as two actors embody a dizzying array of 15 characters. From larger-than-life film stars to downtrodden villagers, each persona is vividly drawn through a seamless combination of physicality, voice, and cleverly minimalist costume changes. With a mere neck scarf or the shift of braces, the actors transform entirely, delivering belly laughs one moment and heart-wrenching emotion the next. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself glued to your seat, swept up in this rollercoaster of a show.
Gerard McCabe, Shaun Blaney (L-R) - 📸 Alex Tabrizi
Playing on the subject matter, McElhinney’s production profits from an innovative blend of the language of the movies and the materiality of live theatre. The result is a bold and modern production that skilfully combines audio-visual tech with a relatively minimalist set, to achieve an incredibly immersive experience. One standout sequence—a chaotic, coked-up montage—feels almost like a Guy Ritchie film transported to the stage and is particularly laudable.
The performances, too, were remarkable. Both actors give every ounce of their energy in this two-hour rollercoaster of a show, embodying their characters with infectious enthusiasm and precision. These shape-shifting performances are a testament to the actors’ skills, demonstrating the power of theatre to immerse an audience using little more than imagination and clever staging. A rail of clothes representing the other extras was an especially creative touch, underscoring the magic of simplicity and the ingenuity of the production team. You’ll find yourself fully immersed as if watching an entire village come to life with just two performers on stage.
Shaun Blaney, Gerard McCabe (L-R) - 📸 Alex Tabrizi
This isn’t just a comedy—it’s a show that touches on deep themes of identity, belonging, and mental health, all while delivering big laughs and memorable moments. McElhinney’s direction keeps the audience on their toes, skilfully navigating the jarring yet effective juxtaposition between hilarity and gravity. It’s these moments that define the production: blending comedy and tragedy with deftness and care, ensuring that the play’s social commentary never feels heavy-handed but always thought-provoking.
If you care about the kind of theatre that makes you think, laugh, and feel, Stones in His Pockets is unmissable. The buzz from opening night was electric, and with only a limited run, tickets are already selling fast. Don’t miss your chance to see this stunning revival in action—book now before it’s too late!
Get your tickets at Salisbury Playhouse and prepare for a night of unforgettable theatre!