Cast members Tom, Tim and Megs are interviewed by Cait, for the brilliant Putney Theatre Production of Accidental Death of an Anarchist by Dario Fo and Franca Rame, adapted by Tom Basden. Directed by Barney Hart Dyke and Owen Thomas James.

An irrepressible fraudster known only as the Maniac is brought into Police Headquarters just as the officers are preparing for a judicial review of the recent 'accidental' death of a suspect in custody. Outwitting his captors, the Maniac dupes them into performing a farcical recreation of the incident, exposing the absurd corruption and terrifying idiocy at the heart of the system.

Dario Fo and Franca Rame's riotous satire has been widely performed around the world since its premiere in 1970. Tom Basden's acclaimed adaptation was first performed in 2022 (starring Daniel Rigby as the Maniac), transferring first to the Lyric in 2023 before moving to the West End.

Reviews of the original production

'A glorious comedy that leaps off the stage' – The Times.

'Simply brilliant... The comic lines come thick and fast, but the underlying political punch is serious and to the point... A tour de force, a great night out… A must-see' – British Theatre Guide

Cast
Tom Everatt: The Maniac
Tim Iredale: Superintendent Curry
Harry Pavlou: Joseph
Jacob Smith: Detective Daisy
Megs Vann: PC Jackson and Fi Phelan
David Webb: Inspector Burton
Barney Hart Dyke: Director
Owen Thomas James: Director

Artistic Directors: Barney and Cait Hart Dyke.
Podcast Editor and sound design: Nick Wells.
Music is 'At the Tropicana' by Chalalatas, license courtesy of Epidemic Sounds.
Recorded at the Putney Arts Theatre.

The Putney Theatre Company at The South West End!
See us online – putneytheatrecompany.org.uk