Review: HAND OF GOD, Hope Theatre

In his programme note, writer and performer Sam Butters attests to having two ‘massive passions’ in his life: “football, and being a Brummie”. And this doesn’t go unnoticed in the world premiere of Butters’ Hand of God.

Following the story of ferociously ambitious five-aside footballer Kieron, this piece of gig-theatre digs into the topic of men’s mental health through the seemingly sole common interest that allows men to openly emote – football. Kieron lives in the shadow of his father, a legendary former five-aside captain who is now reduced to knocking back one-too-many Carlings in front of the premier league on his over-priced HD TV. 

Hand of God is a stirring sports drama that, in a classic formula, has you rooting for the underdog – in this instance Kieron’s five-aside band of misfits, Dyslexia Untied. The pulsing score of garage-inspired tracks composed and mixed onstage by Charlie O’Connor, punches a shot of adrenaline into this dynamic production. Butters’ script, along with lyrics by Charlie Derrar and Joe Siddle, is soul-bearing and vulnerable, matching the ecstatic highs and harrowing lows of victory and defeat in the beautiful game.

Sam Butters pours everything into his role as Kieron and also the voices of his team-mates and father. He barely pauses for breath as he whips through the densely packed script, and doesn’t miss an opportunity to show off some of his fancy footwork. Stationed at his decks, DJ Charlie O’Connor also provides a sporting commentary, giving Gary Neville a run for his money. 

Hand of God covers a lot of ground with themes about fatherhood, ambition, homosocial relationships, as well as providing a wry social commentary on working class football culture. The only element that is perhaps left wanting is the character development that might draw out the relationships a bit more – for all their energy and commitment, there’s only so much Butters and O’Connor can give as a duo.

This is the debut play from TECTUM Theatre, a company seeking to empower the next generation of working-class creators, bridging the currently inaccessible gap into the theatre industry. Hand of God is a fine debut from this emerging company, doing justice to their worthy ambition.

For lovers of the beautiful game, and those who couldn’t be more indifferent, Hand of God is pulse-racing and heart-warming. Funny, poignant and packed with sick beats, this play will leave you excited for the future of TECTUM Theatre.

*** Three stars

Reviewed by: Livvy Perrett

Hand of God plays at the Hope Theatre until 30 July, with tickets available here.