Shane David-Joseph on his role in Accidental Death of an Anarchist

Accidental Death of an Anarchist is a Lyric Hammersmith and Sheffield Theatre co-production, in association with Playful Productions.

Directed by Daniel Raggett, Accidental Death of an Anarchist runs at The Lyric Hammersmith Theatre from Friday 17 March at 7pm. The play is written by Dario Fo and Franca Rame, in a new adaptation by Tom Basden.

An Anarchist has fallen to his death from a police station window. But did he jump or was he thrown?

As the police prepare for an inquiry into the incident, an unhinged showman known only as the Maniac is arrested and brought into the station. Seizing the opportunity to put on a show, he leads the police in an absurd recreation of their version of events, exposing the cover-ups, corruption and profound idiocy of an institution in free-fall.

A razor-sharp satire, Tom Basden’s wickedly hilarious adaptation relocates Dario Fo’s classic farce to contemporary London and features a show-stopping performance from Daniel Rigby, as the Maniac.

The Artiscape spoke to Shane David-Joseph on his role in the play.

What attracted you to the script?

Shane David-Joseph: The first thing that attracted me to the Accidental Death of an Anarchist script, which Tom Basden has so cleverly adapted into modern day, is its quick witty humour. There’s not a minute that goes by without something making you physically laugh out loud!

You reprise the role as Constable Joseph? Can you tell us about this character?

Shane David-Joseph: Constable Joseph is the lowest ranking officer in the play. However he probably has more knowledge in policing than his superiors, most of the time. He cannot express his expertise though as each time he attempts to get his word in he’s batted down by his higher ranking officials.

What are the challenges in playing Constable Joseph?

Shane David-Joseph: Running around everywhere! Joseph is constantly being asked to fetch a cuppa tea or go get some water for the Maniac. This means I’m running around backstage like a headless chicken to get my props and arrive back on stage on cue!

What are you looking forward to in performing in this play this time?

Shane David-Joseph: I’m very much looking forward to seeing how a London audience takes to this play. We first did Accidental Death of an Anarchist up in Sheffield and it was a massive success. Now in London, we’re tweaking jokes and making the play more relevant to the issues arising within the police today.

What do think an audience will take away from the production?

Shane David-Joseph: I think an audience will go away contemplating how we view our police force. We all want a police force who we trust, respect and look to in times of need. However with the increasing number of reports about crimes committed by the police themselves, it’s getting harder and harder to do so.