Production of The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui parodies Hitler’s rise to power

Oct 6 2011 by Mark Smith, Runcorn and Widnes Weekly News

A TALE of murder, fraud and mass unemployment resonates in Bertolt Brecht’s gangster spectacle The Resistible Rise Of Arturo Ui currently showing at the Liverpool Playhouse.

Celebrated playwright Stephen Sharkey has written a piercing new translation of Bertolt Brecht’s allegory of Hitler’s rise to power which will be directed by renowned international director Walter Meierjohann.

With a powerful performance style and charismatic ensemble of actors, led by Ian Bartholomew in the title role, this co-production between Liverpool Everyman and Playhouse and Nottingham Playhouse runs until October 22. It is 1930s Chicago and as the Great Depression hits the city’s fortunes, small time crime boss Arturo strikes a deal and makes a killing.

A spokesman said: “Arturo uses words and his cohorts use violence to gradually take control of the city.

“But whether you’re with him or against him, you can’t ignore the rise of Arturo Ui.”

The production can be seen at the Liverpool Playhouse until October 22. Tickets can be booked on 0151 709 4776 or at www.everymanplayhouse.com