Review: Vertigo Theatre’s THE VERDICT Brings Moral Ambiguity to the Courtroom
A David and Goliath effort to bring justice for the defenseless
There are a plethora of long-standing lawyer jokes that poke fun at the profession as a money-hungry, morally compromised arm of the law. The justice system relies on these individuals to present a case for the jury’s consideration, but lawyers are expected to work in the best interest of their clients, regardless of the individual’s guilt. This brings up issues of personal morality versus professional ethics. What is the breaking point at which a lawyer pushes past their own interests and pursues precedent-setting court cases to make prominent people or institutions accountable for their wrong doing? That is what ‘The Verdict’ brings to the stage.
Originally a novel by Barry Reid, some audience members may be familiar with the 1982 film adaptation starring Paul Newman. I am grateful that I had not previously watched the film, allowing me to experience the story for the first time. Doubtless to say, the film adaptation was written by famous playwright David Mamet, so the story transitioned smoothly to the stage. The shifting set design allowed quick and efficient transitions between the law office and the local pub in the first act. The second act reveals a transformation to the courtroom where the remainder of our story unfolds.
Photo by Fifth Wall Media courtesy of Vertigo Theatre.
Each of the actors in this production were perfectly suited for their roles, providing comic relief, emotional distress, and playful banter at all the right moments. The portrayal of Frank Galvin by Shaun Smyth was truly outstanding, bringing the perfect balance of washed up alcoholic and a champion of justice. The flawed nature of his persona brings a human element that the audience sympathizes with, and yet his compassion to the plight of the victim brings out his protective instincts and allows him to fight with legal integrity. The relationships built between each of these characters was touching and truly drove the heart of this story.
‘The Verdict’ is the final show of this season, running until June 7, 2026. Check out Vertigo’s exciting 2026 / 2027 season lineup, celebrating the theatre’s 50th anniversary!
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