On this Day: The Hypocrite

Sir John Hotham was up to his neck in trouble today in 2017 as Richard Bean’s rip roaring comedy The Hypocrite started its sold out run at Hull Truck. Starring Mark Addy as the exasperated Hotham and Caroline Quentin as his scheming wife, the play took audiences back to 1642 as England stood on the verge of civil war.

The play, co-presented by the Royal Shakespeare Company, follows one of Hull’s most famous moments, when Sir John Hotham refused King Charles I entry into the city, and in doing so, sparked the English Civil War. Throw into the mix that he has a wife lusting after his cousin, a ghost obsessed with chinaware and a daughter in love with the King’s son, there were plenty of sub plots to get your teeth into throughout. 

The performance flowed brilliantly from the off with a wonderful mix of funny local quips, clever use of props and the show’s willingness to get amongst the audience, adding to the brilliant script from award-winning Hull playwright Richard Bean. As soon as viewers entered into the auditorium they were greeted with cast members attempting to sell fresh fruit and oysters, setting the scene of a busy town square.

With Mark Addy and Caroline Quentin, the show had its big hitters in top form. Their relationship throughout the play as husband and wife made for great entertainment, in particular their continuous trading of insults which drew plenty of laughs from the audience.

Whilst Addy and Quentin put in the performances you expect, it should be noted that the local actors on display was outstanding and proudly shone a light on the talent coming out of our city. A special note in particular should be given to Laura Elsworthy, who excelled from start to finish as Sir John Hotham’s maid and secret lover Connie.

Music also played an integral part in the play with a trio of musicians, including singer John Sneesby, superbly complementing the acting with their Ed Sheeran-like acoustic tracks. So popular amongst the crowd, guests asked where they could listen to the music again online.

All in all, The Hypocrite was something not to be missed. Big names, local talent and a brilliant storyline which left you wanting more, The Hypocrite was another string to add to the Hull 2017 bow.