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Shall Roger Casement Hang? / Face

Exploring identity through historical and contemporary narratives

Peter Arnott author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Vagabond Voices

Published:28th Apr '16

Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back

Shall Roger Casement Hang? / Face cover

This collection features two compelling plays: Shall Roger Casement Hang? and Face, exploring identity, history, and personal struggles through engaging narratives.

The first play, Shall Roger Casement Hang?, delves into the tense encounter between Irish radical Roger Casement and his British interrogator, Reginald Hall, during the turbulent time of the Easter Rising. This gripping narrative unfolds as a powerful interrogation that raises critical questions about history, identity, and the implications of personal choices against a backdrop of national conflict. As violent events escalate and the complexities of Casement's sexuality come to light, the stakes for both men intensify, leading to a dramatic conclusion that will alter their lives forever. The play not only examines the fate of an individual but also reflects on the broader impact of the British Empire during a pivotal moment in history.

In contrast, the second play, Face, presents a witty exploration of the lives of identical twin sisters, Isobel and Morag. Despite sharing the same appearance, their paths diverge dramatically, offering a humorous yet poignant examination of family dynamics, personal identity, and the nature of truth. As the sisters recount their stories, the audience is invited to reflect on the complexities of self-perception and the ways individuals navigate their existence in a challenging world. Their contrasting experiences highlight the multifaceted nature of identity and the different roles we assume to cope with life's demands.

Together, these plays offer a rich tapestry of human experience, blending historical and contemporary themes. Shall Roger Casement Hang? / Face challenges audiences to consider the intricacies of personal and national identity, as well as the enduring questions about what truly matters in our lives.

'There's so much wickedly pointed humour in Peter Arnott's writing that we're constantly lured into politically incorrect laughter - a story steeped in love, loyalty, money and family dysfunction. Can't wait! Back-to-back these monologues would be a grand double bill - fingers crossed!' - The Herald; '...two faces, two attitudes to life ... profound and moving ... plumbs the depths of a complex relationship which is occasionally fond and affectionate, but for the most part lived as jealousy, rivalry, resentment, bitterness and even outright aversion. ... These are mighty plays, raising huge, disquieting questions, humorous in part but never whimsical, inducing in an audience that sombre, meditative silence which is a sign of respect.' - Scottish Review of Books

ISBN: 9781908251664

Dimensions: 198mm x 130mm x 11mm

Weight: unknown

130 pages