THE PILLOWMAN
AstonRep Productions presents
The Pillowman
by Marin McDonagh
Directed by Derek Bertelsen
March 21– April 6, 2025
About the show: A writer is interrogated about her nightmarish short stories and similarities to a number of murders occurring in her town. When the writer's mentally impaired brother is also brought in for questioning, this police procedural takes twists and turns that will leave you spellbound. Widely regarded as one of the greatest plays of the past 25 years, The Pillowman examines the role of the artist in society and asks what price do we pay for freedom of expression. Winner of the 2004 Olivier Award for Best New Play.
PRODUCTION TEAM
Derek Bertelsen - Director
Shane Hogan - Stage Manager
Makayla Strohmeyer - Asst. Director
Bethany Hart - Dialect and vocal coach
Jeremiah Barr - Scenic Designer/Props and Tech Director
Samantha Barr - Lighting Designer
kClare McKellaston - Costume Designer
Robert Tobin - Violence Design
Mike Gussis - Original Music & Sound
CAST
Natalie Hurdle - Katurian
Lucas Matteson - Michal
Robert Tobin - Tupolski
Audrey Smith-Phillips - Ensemble
Renzo Vicente - Ensemble
Rian Jairell - Ariel
Reviews
““Directed by Derek Bertelsen, this production at the intimate Jarvis Square Theatre offers a fresh take on the script, notably shifting the relationship of the central characters from two brothers to a brother and sister—a bold choice that adds intriguing new dynamics to an already layered narrative.
Played by Natalie Hurdle, Katurian is a mesmerizing presence on stage, exuding both desperation and fierce determination. Hurdle’s portrayal is both exasperating and captivating…
The police interrogators, Tupolski and Ariel, played by Robert Tobin and Rian Jairell, form a riveting duo…
Lucas Matteson delivers an astonishing performance as Michal…
McDonagh’s Irish heritage often brings religious themes into his work, and The Pillowman is no exception. The play doesn’t shy away from critiquing institutional power, with the Catholic Church subtly woven into its web of influences. This thematic layer adds another level of discomfort, reinforcing the play’s overarching exploration of oppression and control.
Structured in two acts with a brief intermission, The Pillowman takes its time unraveling its intricate narrative. The second act, in particular, ties everything together, offering revelations that deepen our understanding of the characters’ fates. To reveal too much would be a disservice—this is a play best experienced with fresh eyes and an open mind.
The parents, played by ensemble members Renzo Vicente and Audrey Smith-Phillips, are chilling in their sadistic roles, adding to the play’s deeply disturbing undercurrent.
McDonagh’s Irish heritage often brings religious themes into his work, and The Pillowman is no exception. The play doesn’t shy away from critiquing institutional power, with the Catholic Church subtly woven into its web of influences. This thematic layer adds another level of discomfort, reinforcing the play’s overarching exploration of oppression and control.
Structured in two acts with a brief intermission, The Pillowman takes its time unraveling its intricate narrative. The second act, in particular, ties everything together, offering revelations that deepen our understanding of the characters’ fates. To reveal too much would be a disservice—this is a play best experienced with fresh eyes and an open mind.
Staged in an intimate 30-seat theater, this production ensures that audiences feel every ounce of tension up close.”