Interview: Actor Howard Ward on ACCIDENTAL DEATH OF AN ANARCHIST at Lyric Hammersmith
Photo credit: Helen Murray
Tom Basden’s adaptation of Dario Fo and Franca Rame’s Accidental Death of an Anarchist is currently running at the Lyric Hammersmith until 8 April, in a co-production with Sheffield Theatres following its run last year. We spoke to Howard Ward who plays Inspector Burton in the piece.
Can you tell us a little bit about Accidental Death of an Anarchist?
It’s about police corruption, based on a play by the Italian playwright Dario Fo. The British translator Tom Basdon has been faithful to the original play but has updated many of the references and has transported the piece to London.
How does it feel to be reprising your role of Inspector Burton for the show's London run?
Nice! I have enjoyed it a lot. The piece has got a bit deeper I think and it’s lovely to be playing at the Lyric. This theatre is about four or five times the size of Sheffield's studio so the audience reaction is very exciting. The bookings look good and I sincerely hope that it is indicative of people returning to live theatre.
The show is described as "a timely examination of our police powers". Why do you think this is?
There have been a great deal of police investigations recently. Nearly always carried out by the police themselves. The latest reports seem to indicate that there is still a lot of corruption in the Met. I guess it's important to see the police as servants of the state not something more politicised. I think it’s time now for an independent body to examine police behaviour.
It’s great to see that the cast from the Sheffield run are returning for the London production. How is it to be back with everyone?
Very good. It’s a very talented cast and it’s been a blast. We’ve looked at the whole piece afresh, absorbed the topical rewrites and I hope improved on the Sheffield show.
Why should people come and see Accidental Death of an Anarchist?
It’s fast, contemporary, and very funny. The serious points creep up on you and catch you mid-laugh.
What is your favourite thing about being a part of this production?
Listening to the audience having a great time. Being back at the Lyric. I was Dame here in panto ten years ago. Seeing the amazing changes to the building.
