Goering’s Defence (FringeTIX)
Ross Gurney-Randall @ Fringe Factory (The Tea Room)
7:30pm, Sat 23 Feb 2008
So – Goering was a complete bastard, right, but fiercely loyal to Hitler and the National Socialists, and utterly convinced in the righteousness of his actions; quite happy to logically step through his reasoning, too. Sharp as a tack. His eventual trial at Nuremberg provides the backdrop for this show, switching between Goering’s testimony at the trial and his inward thoughts whilst ensconced in his cell, awaiting his decreed execution.
Lighting is simple, switching between ambient for the reflective monologues and spotlight for the testimony. Gurney-Randall roams the stage when not restricted by the spotlight, and with his refined movements I was sometimes convinced I was watching a chunkier, hairier Guy Masterson (who directed). And – mostly – he’s great: a powerful man, commanding respect.
But…
There’s a problem. I never really felt connected to the character of Goering. There was a frosty distance between he and I, and I could never really empathise with – nor despise – this man. No emotional engagement. I just couldn’t invest in the character.
And the ending… ugh. Here’s one of the perpetrators of the Nazi atrocities, who was utterly convinced in his actions, whimpering like a wounded dog. It felt utterly disingenuous, hopelessly ham-fisted. A poor end to, at best, a competent show.