Review: THE LONG DROP, Citizens Theatre

The Long Drop is a new play, adapted by Linda McLean from the novel by Denise Mina, and directed by Dominic Hill.

Set one evening in Glasgow in 1957, The Long Drop centres around notorious serial killer Peter Manuel. Ahead of one of the most famous trials in Scottish history, Manuel and William Watt share a whisky-fuelled evening, stumbling from pub to pub and discussing their alleged crimes.

Watt (Keith Fleming) was allegedly fishing in Lochgilphead when his wife, daughter and sister-in-law were murdered in their beds. Suspected of lying about his alibi, Watt is under investigation for his involvement in the crime and is seeking to clear his name. 

Brian Vernel gives a chilling performance throughout as Peter Manuel, but really excels during the court case where Manuel represents himself. His manic retelling of the sequence of events is thrilling to watch. Even if you’re familiar with the story, you’ll still be on the edge of your seat waiting to see what happens as the tension is so well built throughout.

There’s a strong supporting cast as Andy Clark, George Drennan, Martin Donaghy, Robert Jack and Mary Gapinski rotate through roles. It’s an inherently Glasweigan piece of theatre, and every performance helps to convey that whilst avoiding stereotypes. The Long Drop is so perfectly suited to the Citizens Theatre stage its hard to imagine it being anywhere else.

Jen McGinley’s design is beautifully atmospheric and works well with Stuart Jenkins’ lighting design. The swinging microphone in the middle of the set is unsettling and used to great effect.

McLean’s adaptation of The Long Drop is gripping and evocative, and brought to life by solid performances.

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